MC Beijing & Shanghai Interview

by Michele Caniato

MC: How would you say material innovation improves the economy in China?

ZC: Material innovation is certainly instrumental in maintaining China’s competitive edge and the enormous economic prosperity it has experienced over the past decade. Ultimately, people’s living standards and emotional satisfaction are determined by this economic development. Certainly, this material innovation will be determined by the rhythm of industrial development and people’s needs in China. We are confident, though, that Material ConneXion’s presence will help with everyone’s innovation needs. China’s history, geography, cultural environment, support from government policy, and its people’s way of thinking will have great influence on material innovation and China’s economic development. Material innovation will drive independent and industrial innovation in Chinese society and will promote rapid growth of the economy as a whole.

MC: What is the next development step for MC China?
 
ZC: While some of our goals are loftier than others, we hope to increase our participation in various exhibitions and events, grow our media presence, and open 1,000 university libraries in China over the next three years. We would also like to broaden our corporate membership base with the addition of Fortune 500, government, and research clients.

MC: China’s global presence in manufacturing and product development is rapidly increasing. Where do you think materials stand in this process?

ZC: Materials make creativity happen. Their relationship is like body and soul. Materials allow abstract concepts to form into real life products which for us, is quite exciting. I also think materials will help facilitate innovation development for Chinese enterprises and subsequent growth in manufacturing and product development. We’re excited to see how materials affect the rise of creative industries here in China.

MC: Beijing and Shanghai have established themselves as important design centers in China. What is the role of Material ConneXion in the development of this industry?

ZC: Material ConneXion has recently filled the growing material void in Shanghai and Beijing. Moreover, Material ConneXion is now the go-to materials resource in the Chinese economy and Design Center. More and more designers are experiencing the unexpected, positive outcomes that often come about when working with Material ConneXion. It inspires designers to create innovative concepts and ideas to produce truly awesome designs, furthering the development of these burgeoning international design capitals

MC: These territories offer an abundance of innovative materials. When it comes to materials what do you think China has to offer to other countries?

Zhong Cong: China is an incredibly vast country with a matching diversity in materials. However, I foresee our most popular materials to include architectural decorations, furniture and building materials, rare earth resources and metals.

Michele Caniato: Which industries do you think should increase investments in better material choices in China?
 
ZC: Well, despite the advancements that have already taken place in the information technology and electronics industry, there is always room for growth, especially in this particular segment. I also hope to see the military start taking more advantage of material innovation. Electronics, military, environmental
 
MC: If you could choose one, what is your favorite material?

ZC: Rare earth resources are one of China’s most valuable commodities. For me, they are a source of pride and optimism and I cannot wait to see how else they can be implemented in the advancement of material science.