His remarks came in response to a question about the rapid rise of China’s EVs, lithium-ion batteries and photovoltaic products – the so-called “new three” products that now account for nearly 1.3 trillion yuan (US$188 billion) in annual exports, helping to drive foreign trade growth.
Zeng highlighted the buildout of a comprehensive industrial ecosystem, stretching from upstream mining to materials, battery manufacturing, downstream applications and recycling. The strength of that supply chain, combined with a focus on indigenous innovation, had underpinned the sector’s competitiveness, he said.
“We have built a resilient supply chain and ecosystem in recent years,” he said. “Looking ahead, we will increase our R&D investment, especially by applying more AI methods.”
CATL would continue selling Chinese products to the world while promoting its technologies and standards globally, he added.