Huajian Group puts its best foot forward

Guangdong-based Huajian Group is one of the largest producers of women's shoes in China to make substantial investment in African countries. Zhang Huarong, chairman of Huajian, recently shared with China Daily the company's achievements and development plans in Africa.

What are the main factors that attract Huajian Group to Africa? Can you share some highlights about investing in African markets?

Huajian Group has capital, advanced technology and management experiences and African countries have abundant natural resources and manpower. They've shown a willingness to attract foreign companies. Huajian and our partners in Africa can achieve win-win results. The Chinese central government proposed the Belt and Road Initiative and called to build a closer community with a shared future for Chinese and African people. We believe Chinese companies also need to shoulder more responsibilities to support Africa's economic development.

How has Huajian Group's performance been in the African market in the last few years? Can you share some figures with us? What are the key drivers for the growth?

Ethiopia Huajian International Shoe City was founded in 2011. We built Ethiopia China Huajian International Light Industry City in 2013 in response to the BRI. The total investment for this project will be $2 billion and will create 100,000 jobs for locals upon completion.

Huajian has invested $100 million in Ethiopia and created 8,000 jobs as of today. We have generated $150 million sales revenue in the country.

The Chinese and African governments' support is the most important factor in Huajian's success. Huajian's advanced management system, Africa's abundant natural resources and manpower and our employees' diligence are also key elements.

What support can Huajian provide to companies in Ethiopia China Huajian International Light Industry City?

We offer favorable policies for companies in Ethiopia China Huajian International Light Industry City. For instance, the rental costs for factories are very low. The industrial city is equipped with modern production plants and infrastructure.

Huajian has professional management teams in the city to guarantee companies' operation. We can also help businesses establish contacts with governments, expand social networks, recruit manpower and carry out promotional activities.

What are Huajian Group's expectations for African markets?

Africa's current development situation is quite similar to that of China 40 year ago, right before the reform and opening-up. Residents in Africa have a great willingness to create more wealth and enjoy a more comfortable life. We believe economic growth and purchasing power in Africa will continue to improve in the coming years, which will create more business opportunities for Chinese companies. We believe Africa has a bright future.

(China Daily 06/27/2019 page19)