China: Robots, AI, innovative drugs drive China's export.

Storyline Robots, AI, innovative drugs drive China's export Scorching heat is gripping many European countries, sending demand for cooling products soaring. At an AC factory in Qingdao in east China's Shandong Province, a large order from France is keeping the production lines busy. Zheng Guangxiang, technical lead, Jiaozhou Factory of Haier Air Conditioner： "European orders are surging. Just days ago, we took an urgent order from France for 70,000 units." To handle the rush, the production line quickly switched models. The company has also redesigned its entire AC lineup for Europe to meet stricter green standards. Xu Kaixuan, business lead, Haier Air Conditioner Hungary Market: "It can save 42 percent more electricity than a standard unit in the same room over the same period." Customs data shows that in the first half of 2026, China's exports of cooling home appliances, including ACs, fans and refrigerators, reached about 15 billion dollars. Beyond these traditional goods, some "new faces" have also delivered stunning performances overseas, including robots, AI and innovative drugs - considered the "new trio" of future industries. At this newly opened factory in Suzhou in east China's Jiangsu Province, orders for a robotic sweeper are booked through December, with half coming from overseas markets. Li Jiang, production manager, Smart Manufacturing Center, Ecovacs: "Our planned production capacity is set to reach 7.5 million units." In Suzhou's Wuzhou District alone, there are over 1,600 robotics and smart-manufacturing firms. The area also attracts top talent. Engineers from radar, sensor and casing suppliers work together on product upgrades, improving navigation, endurance and efficiency. Li Si, Director, Industrial Development Bureau, Suzhou Wuzhong Economic and Technological Development Zone: "We've brought in some upstream and downstream enterprises in laser radar, sensors, and motors - all located within a 10-kilometer radius. This compact supply chain can boost our competitiveness." Customs data shows that in the first half of 2026, China's exports of cleaning and bionic robots reached 2.67 billion dollars. Industrial robot exports hit 928 million dollars, a year-on-year increase of 18.6 percent, with shipments to over 140 countries. From air conditioners to robots, the robust growth reflects the country's industrial innovation and supply chain resilience. [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]