Mead Johnson Nutrition to add focus on China market

People visit the stand of Mead Johnson Nutrition during the China Children and Women Industry Expo 2014 in Beijing, China, July 17, 2014.[Photo/IC]

Mead Johnson Nutrition, a global company focused primarily on infant and child nutrition, will take a more proactive marketing strategy in China in the coming years, the company's top management said on Tuesday.

"We are very confident that our growth will exceed that of the industry average. And we will invest more in the R&D sector, entering into new cities, strengthening the supply chain management and the relationship with our distributors," said Enda Ryan, CEO of Mead Johnson Nutrition Greater China.

Industry statistics showed that infant formula producers are expected to see an annual growth of 7 to 10 percent in the coming five years in China, thanks to consumption upgrading and the relaxation of the one-child policy.

"China has been the most vibrant but also most fiercely competitive market in the world," Ryan said.

Reckitt Benckiser bought Mead Johnson in June, which Ryan said he believes will give a boost to Mead Johnson's development in China, thanks to Reckitt Benckiser's strong online marketing capabilities and resources.

China's baby formula market is estimated to rise to 133.7 billion yuan by 2020, according to Euromonitor International, led by overseas brands such as Nestle, Mead Johnson Nutrition, Beingmate and Danone.