Core Viewpoint - Asahi Kasei Corporation showcases its commitment to innovation and local collaboration at the 8th China International Import Expo, emphasizing its focus on diverse materials and industry upgrades [1][3]. Group 1: Product Innovations - Asahi Kasei presents several innovative products tailored to meet Chinese market demands, including Bembreez, a biodegradable fiber made from cottonseed fluff, suitable for clothing and crafts [3][5]. - The company highlights the AiM radar module, designed for non-contact monitoring of multiple individuals' positions and vital signs, addressing the needs of an aging society [3][5]. - In the automotive sector, the VELVET SOUND audio solution enhances in-car audio experiences, aligning with the trend towards high-end electric vehicles, while a resin window solution achieves 40% weight reduction for low-carbon travel [3][5]. Group 2: Strategic Initiatives - Asahi Kasei aims to deepen its local presence in China by establishing co-creation centers and laboratories in cities like Shenzhen and Shanghai, supporting localized R&D efforts [5][6]. - The company plans to adopt a "technology landing + joint innovation" model, focusing on licensing electrolyte technology to Chinese battery manufacturers and exploring partnerships with local pharmaceutical companies [5][6]. - Asahi Kasei's management emphasizes the importance of direct dialogue with Chinese customers to accelerate business growth and meet the evolving demands of the market [5][6]. Group 3: Long-term Vision - Since entering the Chinese market in 1988, Asahi Kasei has established over 20 subsidiaries and employs around 3,000 people, covering various core sectors such as materials and health [6]. - The company expresses its commitment to integrating deeper into China's industrial upgrade and green transformation processes through material innovation [6].

Core Viewpoint - Asahi Kasei has positioned hydrogen energy as a strategic growth area in its latest mid-term management plan, emphasizing its importance in driving future growth in the materials business [3][6]. Group 1: Hydrogen Energy Business Strategy - Hydrogen energy is defined as a strategic cultivation direction in Asahi Kasei's mid-term management plan, serving as a key pillar for the company's growth [6]. - The company plans to invest resources into the hydrogen business through technological innovation, business model upgrades, and digital empowerment [6]. - Asahi Kasei aims to expand its salt electrolysis business into water electrolysis, enhancing internal collaboration while actively seeking external partnerships [6]. Group 2: Market Position and Opportunities in China - China is recognized as a significant market for green hydrogen, with government policies promoting the development of green hydrogen technology and application systems [7]. - Asahi Kasei acknowledges China's strategic importance in its global layout, leveraging its existing salt electrolysis business to meet water electrolysis demand [7]. Group 3: Product Development and Application Scenarios - The company is developing a containerized alkaline water electrolysis system in collaboration with De Nora, targeting distributed energy needs with capacities ranging from 1 to 7.5 MW [8]. - Asahi Kasei is assessing market conditions for product scalability and is providing entry-level equipment to customers to facilitate the adoption of larger systems as hydrogen demand grows [8]. Group 4: Experience and Future Plans - Asahi Kasei has established a 10 MW alkaline water electrolysis demonstration facility in Japan, achieving over 11,000 hours of continuous operation, which has provided valuable operational experience [9]. - The company plans to build a production facility with an annual capacity of 2 GW by 2028 in Kawasaki to support global project deployment [9]. - Asahi Kasei emphasizes the need for local market cooperation mechanisms and conditions for the successful implementation of hydrogen energy projects [9].