China is expected to become a very important centre of research and development for multinational companies, thanks to its robust economic growth and a rich pool of talented people, according to a senior Japanese company executive.

Already an economic powerhouse in the world economy, "China is going to be very important for R&D (research and development)," Teruaki Aoki, senior executive vice-president of Sony Corp, told China Daily in an interview.

Seiichi Kawasaki, president of Sony (China) Ltd, said: "Nowadays, China has become one of the most promising countries in the world. To keep a leading position in such a dynamic market, establishment of local engineering and manufacturing systems remains essential to all enterprises."

As for Sony, the wholly-owned new technology center founded in Shanghai in June demonstrates the company's determination to further strengthen its local R&D forces.

"In the future, Sony will integrate all regional sources and further enhance local production and engineering capabilities in China." Kawasaki added.

The senior executives from Sony were in Beijing to participate in the 10th Anniversary of National Undergraduates Electronics Design Contest Awarding Ceremony. The contest, co-sponsored by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Information Industry, has strong financial support from Sony and attracted more than 25,000 Chinese college undergraduates to participate in the past 10 years.

The contest is designed to help foster innovation and teamwork spirit among the participants, Aoki said.

Aoki said that his company will hire more Chinese college graduates for his company's R&D development.

(China Daily August 17, 2004)