German automotive manufacturer IMS Gear is enhancing its presence in China through its "Local for Local" strategy and multicultural collaboration, backed by strong government support from Taicang, east China's Jiangsu province. The company continues to bolster the region's economic growth, industrial advancement and international partnerships.

Founded in 1863 and based in Donaueschingen, Baden-Wurttemberg, IMS Gear maintains a leading role in global automotive drive systems. Its Asian expansion materialized in 2009 with the establishment of IMS Gear (Taicang) Co., Ltd. in Chengxiang town, Taicang city. 

Vice President Zoltan Nemeth noted that government support has been instrumental since the company's founding, with backing from multiple administrative levels, including Jiangsu province, Suzhou city and local authorities in Taicang city and Chengxiang town.

Highlighting China's market potential, Nemeth said understanding local markets and needs remains vital to their success. The company has focused primarily on domestic sales since launching operations in 2009.

"In recent years, we've made significant strides in localizing raw materials, and nearly all our products are sold within China," added Vice President Cai Yu.

IMS Gear (Taicang) Vice President Cai Yu discusses company operations in Taicang, east China's Jiangsu province, Dec. 12, 2024. [Photo by Yang Chuanli/China.org.cn]

The local government's multifaceted support has enhanced the company's development. Nemeth noted: "We received financial support for several projects and activities, such as smart production in our factory. Beyond financial assistance, we received significant additional support. When we faced challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, the local government provided valuable assistance."

Foreign employees of IMS Gear speak with reporters in Taicang, Jiangsu province, east China's Jiangsu province, Dec. 12, 2024. [Photo by Yang Chuanli/China.org.cn]

The company brings together talent from Germany, Austria and other countries, forming an international team that combines multicultural perspectives with shared technical expertise. German employee Sebastian said he was impressed by Chinese engineers' skill in applying mathematical knowledge to work analysis and calculations.

His colleague Thomas observed that Chinese staff members excel at teamwork and show great enthusiasm. "Chinese people are generally much more open. When you have ideas or want to find compromises, Chinese people are more willing to cooperate with people from different backgrounds and with different ideas," Austrian employee Dominik said.

Thomas reflected on life in Taicang: "I'm very impressed by how fast everything has developed here. For example, when I arrived in 2019, there was no high-speed train. And now, after such a short amount of time, we have a high-speed train that can take us to Shanghai in just 25 minutes."

Marius, from Germany, said Taicang is progressing toward internationalization while maintaining its local character. "In China, you can see a lot of cool things and make nice friends. The country boasts amazing cities and diverse landscapes, ranging from towering mountains to deserts and jungles."

According to Taicang Science and Technology Bureau, the company's core products now command 50% of the domestic market share and are used by major automotive brands, including Shanghai Volkswagen, GM, BMW and Audi. In Taicang, both the company and its employees have grown while gaining valuable cross-cultural experience in this dynamic city.

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