In order to fully appreciate China’s role in electronics manufacturing, one must first understand the fact that China is, hands down, the largest exporter of electronics products in the world. Since the early 90’s, China’s electronics industry has grown rapidly, finally surpassing the U.S. as the number one exporter in 2005. This rate of growth has been unprecedented and nothing short of staggering, as the industry giant experienced a tenfold increase in just ten years and has continued growth at a comparable pace in recent years.
Among China’s major electronics exports products, portable computers and mobile phones make up the majority while other products such as mobile phone accessories and LCD panels also constitute a strong share of this market. Some of the main countries that China exports to include Japan, the United States, South Korea, Germany and the Netherlands.
Using strategic stimulus plans, China has managed to further boost its electronics industry both domestically and abroad, by instituting countrywide programs such as “Home Appliances to the Countryside,” that involve the expansion of major electronics products into developing rural areas. Major products include home appliances, automobiles and other core electronics products normally found in more urban living settings. The Chinese government has been a strong supporter of these developments by providing subsidies to manufacturers taking part in such programs.
On an international scale, China is enjoying its position as the number one electronics provider in the world and if future trends in technology are any indication, the country will only further cement its place in this regard. Mobile technology and telecommunications have done nothing short of take off in recent years, and are continuing to evolve and play an increasingly important role in the lives of an ever-growing market of consumers. Sitting on the cutting edge of this technology while being the number one supplier is a perfect position to be in, and one China will likely enjoy for the foreseeable future.
