Artificial intelligence industry powering city’s economy, with companies seeing 65 percent surge in profits

BEIJING, Oct. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from chinadaily.com.cn

Shanghai, as a leading hub for artificial intelligence in China, has been contributing its expertise to support AI development and global governance in recent years.

According to the Shanghai government, the industry has become a new engine for the city’s economy. By the end of the first quarter in 2025, the total industrial value of Shanghai-based AI companies with a minimum annual sales revenue of 20 million yuan ($2.8 million) had exceeded 118 billion yuan, up 29 percent year-on-year. The profit generated by these companies surged 65 percent year-on-year.

Shanghai has also seen the establishment of many AI communities which can provide support to different sorts of companies. For instance, the SMC Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center in Xuhui district mainly fuels large language model development companies, while the Model Magic Community in Pudong New Area mainly supports embodied intelligence and applications. The two communities are home to more than 700 AI businesses and can offer life-cycle financial support to businesses.

Over the past few years, Shanghai has promoted cooperation and communication within the AI industry. The annual World Artificial Intelligence Conference, inaugurated in 2018 in Shanghai, has become a key platform for global experts and businesses to exchange opinions on the latest developments and seek ways to address challenges.

The 2025 World AI Conference & High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, held in Shanghai in July, attracted more than 1,500 industry leaders, government officials, researchers and investors from more than 70 countries and regions. The three-day event, centered around the theme “Global Solidarity in the AI Era”, drew more than 300,000 visitors, with over 100 products making their global or China debut.

One of the key outcomes of the 2025 edition was the release of an action plan for global AI governance. It invites governments, international organizations, enterprises and research institutions to collaborate and promote international exchanges, including through a cross-border open-source community.

With significant strides made in AI ecosystem development, Shanghai is becoming a popular destination for developing such technology and products, as well as seeking partnerships for foreign investors in recent years.

Innovative core

Switzerland’s robotic technology giant ABB, which has been leading robotic industry development for more than 50 years, regards AI-powered innovation as the core of its future development.

According to the company, AI not only optimizes industrial processes, leading to improved efficiency and productivity, but also makes robots easier to use, reducing barriers.

Globally, ABB has more than 250 projects in its pipeline, spanning both analytical and generative AI. These include internal projects that optimize workflows and enhance efficiency, and external projects that are developed in close collaboration with customers to drive product innovation and unlock new value.

The Shanghai Mega Factory, one of ABB’s three such facilities worldwide and established in 2022, plays a crucial role in advancing the company’s AI development in China.

“The factory is not just a production site but also our testing ground for AI innovation,” said Henry Han, group senior vice-president and president of ABB Robotics Division in China.

“Our Shanghai Mega Factory and research and development center together form an innovation ecosystem encompassing research, production and application. This setup provides a solid foundation and assurance for AI technology to move from concept to practical implementation, ultimately empowering local customers,” he said.

In July, ABB launched three innovative robotic products from its Shanghai Mega Factory, targeting automation requirements across sectors such as electronics, consumer goods, and general industries. These new offerings — powered by ABB Robotics’ OmniCore single control platform that enables the full integration of AI, sensors, cloud and edge computing systems — are designed to handle tasks ranging from basic material handling to sophisticated applications such as dispensing and polishing.

The company said that the developments highlight ABB’s ongoing efforts to meet the rising demand for accessible and user-friendly automation solutions in China.

So far, supported by the Shanghai Mega Factory, ABB has produced 90 percent of its robots in China for local clients. It has also committed to increasing the localization of its supply chain in recent years.

Han said ABB, with roots in China dating back to 1994, will continue to use the capacity of its Shanghai Mega Factory to promote its “local-to-local” strategy to better serve businesses in China.

“Today, we continue to expand our robotics leadership in China, for China and beyond, building on our full local value chain of manufacturing, research and development to deliver groundbreaking solutions for our customers in businesses of all sizes,” said Han.

Shanghai boasts the most advanced production capacity of ABB in the world and will continue to be a strong arm to support the long-term development of the company.

“Reflecting on ABB’s 30 years of robust growth in Shanghai, we deeply appreciate the city’s excellent business environment, its atmosphere of innovation and its strong support for technological innovation in high-end manufacturing,” said Han.

“We are honored to have been a part of the city’s growth and are very optimistic about the prospects for smart manufacturing here. In the future, we hope to leverage Shanghai’s strong manufacturing foundation and mature industrial ecosystem to continue deepening our local presence. We look forward to resonating with Shanghai’s spirit of innovation and aligning with China’s modernization process,” he said.

Accelerating development

Siemens, which has been developing AI technology for more than 50 years, is accelerating its efforts in China by leveraging its expertise in the industrial sector.

According to Xiao Song, global executive vice-president of Siemens, and chairman, president and CEO of Siemens China, the country’s manufacturing industry is at a critical stage of high-quality development.

In emerging sectors such as battery manufacturing and new energy vehicles, China not only has large-scale and complete supply chains but is continuously shaping new advantages in global industrial competition. The rapid growth of these industries provides extensive application scenarios and a rich data foundation for industrial AI.

“Siemens is confident about future development in China. This confidence stems from China’s comprehensive industrial system, the most complete in the world, as well as its more than 6 million manufacturers, of which most are small and medium-sized enterprises that are active across various segments of the industrial value chain. Additionally, China fosters a robust atmosphere for innovation, further enhancing its appeal as a key market for Siemens,” said Xiao.

“The window of opportunity for industrial AI has opened, with China offering the most dynamic application landscape. It is fertile ground for incubating industrial intelligence. In the future, those who can effectively implement AI, run successful applications, produce tangible results and create value will seize the initiative in the new era of productivity,” he said.

Shanghai will continue to be a vital city in supporting the company’s journey in the AI world, according to the company.

“Siemens will continue to leverage its open digital business platform, Siemens Xcelerator, to further expand its AI collaboration network in Shanghai and the Yangtze River Delta, supporting local companies in accelerating product development and market deployment,” said Xiao. “The era of industrial AI has begun. China’s vast and diverse industrial system is becoming the most dynamic application scenario for AI, opening up new possibilities for a leap in productivity for Chinese industry.”

He added: “Siemens has been deeply involved in the AI field for over 50 years. With high-quality data, deep industry knowledge, and full-stack technical capabilities that combine software and hardware, we are continuously making breakthroughs in cutting-edge areas like ‘industrial foundation models’ and ‘industrial agents’. We are building an open innovation ecosystem that drives the transition from AI+manufacturing to manufacturing+AI, injecting new momentum into the transformation and upgrading of China’s manufacturing industry.”

Lighting the way

Signify, a key lighting solutions provider from the Netherlands, has established one of the largest R&D centers of the group and a Chinese institute in Shanghai to promote AI innovation and applications in the lighting sector.

“We focus on exploring the deep integration of AI technology and smart lighting systems in both professional and home lighting sectors, incorporating AI algorithms into lighting products and solutions to achieve more efficient energy management, more precise operational and maintenance decisions and a smarter, smoother user experience,” said Liu Haitao, head of Research China of Signify.

Liu said Signify has launched several AI-driven lighting products and solutions in the Chinese market.

In May, Signify introduced its first industry-specific generative AI agent globally for lighting management systems. This generative AI agent has been integrated with Signify’s smart connected road lighting system, Interact City Flex, to empower smart streetlight system development in Shanghai and other cities around China, according to Liu.

In addition, during the 2025 China International Import Expo, set to run from Nov 5 to 10 in Shanghai, Signify will launch a new home lighting solution which redefines the relationship between lighting and human mood, said Liu.

Apart from bringing AI solutions to its clients, Signify integrates AI into its production processes to enhance operational efficiency and gain deeper market insights. In 2024, Signify launched its enterprise-level generative AI tools within the group to help employees innovate their working style.

“The value of AI technology lies not only in the innovation itself but also in how it truly empowers employees and enhances organizational efficiency. The implementation of Signify GenAI Tools is a significant practice in turning this concept into reality and provides the industry with a model for digital transformation,” said Liu.

Eyeing emerging potential in AI development, Signify will continue to integrate AI with its lighting solutions to support urban development in various aspects.

“We will focus on key areas such as smart buildings, healthy living environments, and urban sustainability, and further promote the integration and innovation of AI technology with lighting solutions. This includes expanding their intelligent applications in scenarios such as offices, healthcare and hotels,” said Liu.

“Our goal is to transform lighting systems from basic functional services to intelligent perception and autonomous decision-making. By leveraging smart lighting environments, we aim to empower the digital transformation of cities and build a more efficient, human-centric and sustainable urban ecosystem for the future,” Liu added.

HANGZHOU, China, Oct. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On October 22, Hikvision celebrated the 5th anniversary of its STAR Program for Social Good. As a key part of the celebration, the STAR Program officially launched the Installer Partner Initiative, aiming to invite more installer partners to join in impactful Social Good projects.

Hikvision STAR is a key component of Hikvision’s sustainability journey, which stands for “Sustainability through Technology, Actions for Responsibility”. Beyond driving innovation to support customers and business, Hikvision also contributes to society through public welfare.

With this vision in mind, 5 years ago, on October 23, 2020, Hikvision launched its STAR Program for Social Good, aiming to provide AIoT technologies, products, and solutions to help non-profit organizations and projects explore innovative ways to benefit communities, nature, and culture. To date, Hikvision has partnered with over 30 non-profits in 14 countries and regions.

However, during the past 5-year journey, Hikvision and its partners had consistently encountered significant obstacles in complex installation environments. Many project sites are situated in remote locations – including plateaus, oceans, and forests – imposing demanding requirements on installation.

Hikvision’s glacial lake monitoring and protection project, partnered with the Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research, is a strong example. Teams had to install monitoring devices in extreme cold and strong wind conditions high in the Himalayas, highlighting how technically demanding such STAR projects are.

Reflecting this insight, Hikvision advanced the STAR Program by launching the Installer Partner Initiative, calling for installer partners to join by contributing installation techniques. Joining partners can enhance their capabilities while achieving social value and growth through participation.

“Although some NGOs can rely on their IT teams to install cameras, most of them still lack this professional skill,” stated Ms. Merida Shen, the initiator of Hikvision STAR Program for Social Good. “That’s why we launch this Initiative, calling for installer partners to join us in this meaningful journey and together create a better world.”

It is reported that the Installer Partner Initiative aims to call for global installers who possess technical expertise and commitments to social good. “We look forward to advancing co-creation with our installer partners.” Ms. Merida stated, “Together, we build a better world and THRIVE for a better future.”

Click here for more information about Hikvision STAR Program.

NINGHAI, China, Oct. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nusign, an independently operated brand under Deli Group, successfully held its global brand launch event in Ninghai, Zhejiang on October 27, 2025. The event marked the comprehensive initiation of Nusign’s internationalization strategy, representing its official debut in the global market. Senior leaders from Deli Group, along with over 200 outstanding distributor partners from more than 70 countries and regions worldwide, attended the event, joining Nusign in outlining a clear path for global development.

Articulating the Brand Renewal Vision, Unveiling the High-Growth Path

“From 2024 to 2025, the transformation at Nusign has encompassed not only ‘global expansion’ in the market, ‘iterative upgrades’ in products, and a ‘refreshed image’ for the brand, but more profoundly, a strategic shift from ‘outputting products’ to ‘outputting philosophy’,” reflected Adrian Lee, Vice President of Deli Group and Managing Director of Nusign, in his address. Adrian Lee highlighted that Nusign brings together the expertise of design teams from China, Japan, and South Korea, backed by the endorsement of renowned international industrial design master Naoto Fukasawa. It is this steadfast dedication to aesthetics and innovation that has fueled the rapid growth of Nusign’s product lines.

Laying the Foundation for Global Strategy, Showcasing Group Strengths

Charlie Huang, General Manager of Deli Group’s Overseas Business Division, detailed the three core pillars paving the way for Nusign’s internationalization during the conference: a long-cultivated overseas market presence, a mature global supply chain network, and efficient localized operational capabilities. He emphasized that the Group has built a highly efficient system capable of responding nimbly to global market demands. Leveraging the Group’s local teams and resources worldwide, Nusign will deeply understand and cater to diverse market needs, providing partners with digital empowerment spanning from logistics to marketing. This ensures Nusign starts strong and secures long-term advantages within the intensely competitive global landscape.

Interpreting the “Design-Driven” Core, Launching a New Product Matrix

A new product matrix covering several core series was officially launched during the event. This includes the ‘Master Series’ led by international design master Naoto Fukasawa, the fresh and soothing ‘Sunshine Whisper’, the ‘Natural Fluid’ inspired by organic forms, the ‘Classic Series’ inheriting the brand’s essence, and the ‘PUZZLE Series’ featuring freely combinable pen clips that emphasize personalized expression. These products comprehensively cover three major scenarios: learning, work, and home life. Through their minimalist aesthetics, practical functionality, and refined craftsmanship, they collectively embody Nusign’s uncompromising pursuit of aesthetic excellence and its competitiveness in the global market.

With the successful conclusion of its global launch event in Ninghai, Nusign has officially entered a new phase of international development. Moving forward, supported by its clear brand positioning, exceptional product strength, and solid Group backing, Nusign will join hands with global partners to steadily advance towards its vision of becoming a leading international aesthetic stationery brand.

• Executive Chair Chung discusses multifaceted cooperation with HRH the Crown Prince
• Explains collaboration initiatives and plans as strategic partner in realizing Saudi Arabia’s future vision for mobility and other areas
• Exchanges views on Saudi Vision 2030 and expresses expectation for expanded cooperation in future energy sectors 
• Executive Chair Chung Reviews Hyundai Motor’s local plant construction site and Hyundai Motor Group’s mid- to long-term strategy
• Hyundai Motor Group expands cooperation with major Saudi institutions in mobility, smart cities, and other sectors

SEOUL, South Korea and RIYADH, Saudi Arabia , Oct. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung visited Saudi Arabia, the Middle East’s largest economy and a nation undergoing major industrial transformation. Chung met with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, to review the Group’s local growth strategy and explore future business opportunities.

During his visit, Executive Chair Chung held discussions with HRH the Crown Prince covering a wide range of topics including the automotive industry and smart cities. This marked the first one-on-one meeting between the two leaders, though they had previously met twice, including during the Crown Prince’s 2022 visit to Korea.

“Hyundai Motor Group deeply understands the meaning and importance of Saudi Vision 2030,” said Executive Chair Chung.” Based on our competitive business capabilities, we are participating in Saudi Arabia’s giga projects and look forward to expanding collaboration in future energy sectors including renewable energy, hydrogen, Small Modular Reactor (SMR), and nuclear energy.”

Strategic Partnership for Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia is pursuing “Vision 2030,” a national development project aimed at diversifying its economy from energy-focused industries toward manufacturing and hydrogen energy. The kingdom is hosting international events including the World Expo and FIFA World Cup, positioning itself as one of the world’s most prominent emerging economies.

As the Middle East’s largest automotive market, Saudi Arabia is actively attracting global automakers, including Hyundai Motor Company, with the long-term goal of becoming an automotive hub serving not only the Middle East but also North Africa.

Executive Chair Chung expressed gratitude for the Saudi government’s continued interest and support, outlining Hyundai Motor Group’s ongoing collaborative projects and future plans as a partner in realizing Saudi Arabia’s vision for mobility and other sectors.