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Motorcycles go global at Chongqing show

By Ma Yi (China Daily)
Updated: 2009-09-21 08:48

New design from Chongqing-based Jialing Industry Group, one of the top motorcycle makers in the nation, was among the many on display at the exhibition.

Home to almost one-fifth of global motorcycle production, Chongqing is a city understandably famous for its two-wheeled industry and a fitting locale as it welcomed 333 motorcycle firms to the eighth China International Motorcycle Trade Exhibition that began on Sept 17.

Renowned international motorcycle companies including Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, Suzuki and the top seven domestic brands all showed new products at this event.

In 2008, Chinese motorcycle companies produced more than 27.5 million motorcycles, half of the world's total production. As the largest motorcycle production center in China, Chongqing produced 10 million last year, 38 percent of the national total.

Yet both rural and urban domestic markets are becoming increasingly competitive, making "going global" an inevitable choice for Chinese motorcycle makers.

Related readings:  Motorcycle Manufacturing in China  Tokyo Motorcycle Show 2009  Motorcycle maker Zongshen lowers overseas sales target  China cancels motorcycle bidding in rural subsidy scheme

In recent years, exports have played a more and more important role in the industry's development. With the growth of the entire industry, Chinese motorcycle enterprises have the ability to expand to a broader international market in the world.

Chinese motorcycle producers have also made great efforts in brand building, aiming to increase their recognition in the international market.

One example is the Jinan-based Qingqi Group that released its new logo at the exhibition.

"We are considering making adjustments to our brand strategy to meet the demands of the international market," said Lu Hongxian, general manager of Qingqi Group.

In another development, domestic motorcycle companies are also urging the government to release favorable tax policies for exports and domestic sales of motorcycles.

While domestic companies are shifting their focus to expand globally, renowned Italian motorcycle maker Ducati is bringing their new models to debut at show in China. Seeing a potential market in China for large-displacement motorcycles, Ducati will open their first office in Shanghai on Oct 23. Its Beijing office will open in December.