Saw Choon Seong, Global Vice President and President of China for Air Products, is set to participate in the 17th Annual Meeting of the Chongqing Mayor’s International Economic Advisory Council (CMIA) on September 22. As a member of the Mayor’s International Economic Advisory team since 2020, Saw sees this event as a unique opportunity to gain insights into Chongqing’s evolving landscape and future ambitions.
Despite pandemic challenges, Saw expresses confidence in Chongqing’s continued growth, stating, “We’ve always viewed Chongqing as a pivotal market. This conviction led us to further our investments here, even during these challenging times.”
Over the past decade, Air Products has established a robust economic relationship with Chongqing, serving diverse sectors including electronics, electric vehicles, steel, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. The company has been supplying gases for industrial applications to electronic clients in Chongqing since 2008, and in 2021, expanded its services to support small and medium-sized businesses in the region.
At this year’s CMIA, Saw will introduce a centralized industrial gas supply system proposal for Chongqing’s electronic industrial parks. The goal is to optimize the supply chain while enhancing the safety and reliability of gas provisions.
Air Products, known for its involvement in hydrogen energy initiatives across China, aims to strengthen its collaboration with the Chongqing government and local businesses. Their vision includes promoting hydrogen energy adoption through supportive policies, widespread use of hydrogen fuel cell trucks, and increased investments in hydrogen production and infrastructure.
Saw Choon Seong’s extensive experience with Air Products, including work with the company’s joint venture in Malaysia, led to his appointment to the Mayor’s International Economic Advisory Council in 2020. His contributions to Shanghai’s economic and societal development were recognized with the “Magnolia Award” in 2021.
Starting with its initial gas plant investment in Shenzhen in 1987, Air Products has expanded significantly in China. By the fiscal year 2022, the company boasted over 100 wholly-owned joint ventures and employed around 5,000 individuals.
The 17th CMIA will feature 36 prominent members from Fortune 500 companies and major global conglomerates, spanning 12 countries. The agenda covers various topics, including intelligent manufacturing, electronics, energy, chemicals, and finance. Together, participants will explore how Chongqing’s international trade across these sectors can drive global progress.
As Chongqing stands on the brink of a new era, with support and investment from companies like Air Products, the city is poised to solidify its position as a vital hub for global economic and technological advancements.
