SINGAPORE (Aug 21): International Enterprise (IE) and Ascendas-Singbridge launched on Aug 21 the Singapore Manufacturing Innovation Centre (SMIC) in Guangzhou, a one-stop shop to facilitate partnerships between the Singapore Industry 4.0 technology solution providers and Chinese enterprises looking to adopt such solutions.

The Guangdong government has pledged about $190 billion to help drive its next phase of growth by upgrading its manufacturing sector and the adopting robotics to cope with the rising labour costs and shortage of skilled labour.

This first-of-its-kind platform will help Singapore companies leverage on the rising demand in China, arising from the “Made in China 2025” initiative which aims to upgrade traditional industries and develop its advanced manufacturing sector through technology.

Source: IE Singapore

A pioneer batch of five Singapore technology players with complementary capabilities have been chosen to anchor the SMIC – Akribis Systems, Barghest Building Performance, K-One, Plant Werx and SESTO Robotics.

Through this platform, the member companies will be connected to potential leads as well as have ready access to MNCs and Chinese enterprises situated in the Guangzhou Development District.

Moreover, they will also benefit from seminars, workshops, tradeshows and demonstrations that facilitate networking and business matching.

Lee Ark Boon, Chief Executive Officer of IE Singapore says, “Singapore has a strong knowledge-intensive manufacturing sector, which accounts for 20% of our GDP. Because of this, our local technology solutions providers have gained relevant expertise and track record in transforming the traditional manufacturing sector.

The story, written by Samantha Chiew, first appeared on The Edge Singapore