
Core Viewpoint - BASF is deepening its engagement in the Chinese market, focusing on innovation and sustainable development, with significant investments in research and production facilities to meet the growing demand in the chemical industry [11][12][14]. Group 1: Investment and Expansion - BASF has established a competitive production, marketing, technical service, and innovation network in China over its 140 years of presence [12]. - The company has invested approximately €2.8 billion in the Shanghai Innovation Park, which has become the largest R&D center for BASF in the Asia-Pacific region [13]. - By the end of 2024, BASF plans to have invested around €17 billion in the Greater China region, with sales in China accounting for over 13% of its global sales [13][14]. Group 2: Strategic Projects - The BASF Zhanjiang Integrated Base, with a total investment of about €10 billion, is the company's largest overseas investment project and is expected to become its third-largest production base globally [14]. - The Zhanjiang project includes a steam cracking unit with an annual capacity of 1 million tons of ethylene and several downstream production facilities [14]. - The project has received strong support from local governments, which have facilitated site selection and project preparation [15]. Group 3: Research and Innovation - BASF is collaborating with the Yangtze River Delta Physical Research Center and Beijing Weilan New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. to develop next-generation solid-state battery technology [11]. - The company is increasing its R&D investment in China, particularly in fast-growing sectors such as new energy vehicles and renewable energy [16]. - The establishment of the Asia Open Research Network has led to approximately 200 joint research projects focused on sustainable materials and advanced processes [17]. Group 4: Workforce and Talent Development - BASF employs over 12,000 people in China, with about 10% being R&D personnel, reflecting the company's commitment to local innovation [17]. - The company has signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with South China University of Technology to enhance talent cultivation and industry-academia collaboration [16].