Over the years, many Chinese companies have pursued high-profile mergers and acquisitions in a bid to go multinational. Few have succeeded.
Lenovo Corp Ltd, however, is one that did. Now the world's fourth-largest PC maker, it has become a role model for companies across China.
Feng Jun, CEO of Beijing Huaqi Information Digital Technology Co Ltd, which manufactures mp3 players and digital cameras, said: "For Chinese companies, mergers and acquisitions are the most difficult way to expand overseas, given our lack of international talent, experience and the language barrier.
"But Lenovo somehow beat the odds, and that was a remarkable achievement."
As a newly elected CPPCC member, Yang Yuanqing, Lenovo's 44-year-old CEO and chairman, is happy to share the company's hard-learned overseas lessons at the ongoing session in Beijing. And his first proposal as a political advisor is on how the government can help domestic firms tap into overseas markets.
"I hope it will help more Chinese companies achieve success abroad," Yang said.
In 2004, the $3-billion Lenovo acquired the personal computer division of IBM, which was three times its size and had operations in more than 100 countries and regions.
Against all the odds, Yang and his team succeeded in integrating the operations of the two firms and developed Lenovo into a recognized brand in 166 countries.
"We have retained almost all of the former IBM staff, including the marketing, sales and research and development teams," Yang said.
"Our research centers in the United States, Japan and here in China have helped us gain an edge in efficiency and technology."
The research centers Lenovo inherited have enabled it to roll out products that appeal to global consumers on more than just price.
