Air Liquide, a world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and health, remains optimistic about the Chinese market amid the slowing economy.

"China is witnessing quick growth in the industrial gas market. There are still opportunities for us to deliver strong growth this year," said Marcelo Fioranelli, president and chief executive officer of Air Liquide China.

In the past few years, Air Liquide has developed rapidly in China by increasing its footprint and production capacity.

The company implemented a market expansion plan between 2007 and 2013 and established a strong presence in key coastal industrial areas in China. Today, Air Liquide is further expanding into China's central, south and west regions. Currently, the company operates more than 85 plants in over 40 cities with about 4,300 employees in China.

Despite China's decelerated economic growth, Air Liquide remains optimistic about its growth opportunities. Fioranelli said: "Air Liquide's growth is based on industrial investments and market growth in the country. China is one of the top five countries for Air Liquide worldwide in terms of sales, so we will grow with the Chinese economy and invest accordingly."

In response to the key market transformations in China, Air Liquide launched a new strategic plan in 2014 to focus on operational excellence and profitable growth. It is increasing its focus on areas such as alternative energies and environmental protection, as well as the rapid development of electronics and healthcare industries.

"In 2014, Air Liquide China had a very good year. Growth exceeded 20 percent, boosted by the start of several new production units in late 2013 and early 2014. This year should be another year of growth for Air Liquide in China," Fioranelli said.

Air Liquide has established partnerships with several leading companies in China including Sinopec, Shagang Group, the semiconductor manufacturer SK hynix Inc and flat panel display manufacturer BOE Technology Group Co Ltd.

To better serve local customers and respond to their requirements in an effective and efficient manner, Air Liquide plans to further strengthen its research and development capability in China.

Its new 25 million euro research and technology center in Shanghai, which is due to open at the end of the year, is expected to be staffed by more than 200 engineers. In addition, the company has partnered with leading Chinese universities, including Tsinghua University and Tongji University, for the development of wastewater treatment with gas applications.

Fioranelli said Air Liquide places equal importance on performance and social responsibility, advocating an environmentally friendly mindset through its innovative products and solutions and also CSR initiatives. Air Liquide China's annual CSR program, called "Air Liquide Care", includes nationwide tree-planting activities and recycled computer donation to primary schools in rural areas of China.

zhuanti@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 06/30/2015 page24)