Inside KONE’s New R&D Center: Where Elevators Meet AI
We, with FinnCham Hong Kong, spent an inspiring afternoon at KONE’s new R&D center in Qianhai, where the global leader in urban mobility shared insights into their operations across the Greater Bay Area and unveiled some game-changing technologies.
The facility itself is impressive, but what stood out were the innovations driving the future of how cities move people vertically.
Technologies That Captivated Us:
Innovation
Why It Matters
Lighter Cable Technology
Reduces material weight while maintaining safety standards
AI-Powered Engineer Dispatch
Intelligent routing of maintenance teams based on real-time elevator data
Greater Bay Area Strategy
Understanding how multinational tech adapts to regional needs
This visit reminded us why the Shenzhen ecosystem continues to attract companies pushing boundaries in infrastructure and technology. KONE’s approach to combining engineering excellence with intelligent software showcases what’s possible when hardware and digital systems work in harmony.
Want to learn more about urban tech developments in the Greater Bay Area? Reach out—we’d love to connect you with our network.
Following our technology tour of Astrall Dynamics, the FinnCham South China community gathered for an intimate and meaningful dinner with Ambassador of Finland to China Mikko Kinnunen, and members of his embassy retinue.
A Night of Dialogue and Community
Over a delicious spread of traditional Cantonese cuisine, the atmosphere was relaxed yet purposeful. This gathering was highly anticipated by our members, offering a rare opportunity to sit down face-to-face with the Ambassador and discuss the realities of doing business in the region.
The evening was less about formal protocol and more about genuine connection. Members of our community shared their greetings, success stories, and, importantly, their concerns regarding the evolving business landscape in South China. It was a space where entrepreneurs could voice their challenges directly to diplomatic leadership, ensuring that the Finnish business perspective is heard at the highest levels.
A theme of our conversation was the sheer scale and potential of the Greater Bay Area (GBA). South China is not just a market; it is a vast ecosystem with immense room for Finnish innovation and enterprise. We welcome more delegations enjoy some South China hospitality in the future.
Looking Ahead
The dinner concluded with a shared sense of optimism. The feedback loop between our members and the Embassy was invaluable, and we are already looking forward to translating these conversations into concrete cooperation.
Thank you to Ambassador Kinnunen and the embassy team for their time and engagement, and to our members for making this a vibrant and necessary gathering. Together, we are building stronger bridges for Finnish business in South China.
Thank you to all our members and friends who joined us for this year’s Annual General Meeting. It was a pleasure to see so many familiar and new faces, and to close the year together in such a positive and constructive spirit.
We are happy to share that our new Chair is Mika Autio, and I am honoured to take on the role of Vice Chair for the coming term. We also welcome in our new Board members. We look forward to working closely with our Board, members, and partners to continue strengthening our Chamber and delivering meaningful value to our community.
As we look ahead, we are optimistic about the year to come and hopeful for interesting opportunities, stronger cooperation, and good business prospects for all our members.
Thank you for your trust, engagement, and continued support. Here’s to another active, insightful, and rewarding year together!
We extend our warm thanks to South China University of Technology (SCUT) for hosting us on campus and to all visitors who joined the event. The tour offered valuable insights into SCUT’s impressive research labs, technology programs, and vibrant academic environment.
This visit was also special because we welcomed the next generation: both my child and a visitor’s young son participated. It was a reminder that our work is not only about business and industry but also about building bridges that benefit long-term cooperation between Finland and South China.
FinnCham South China Visit to SCUT (South China University of Technology)
Date & Time: October 18, 2025 | 14:30 – 17:30 (with optional dinner afterwards) Location: South China University of Technology (SCUT), Guangzhou How to get there: Wushan metro station (3号线) exit C
FinnCham South China is pleased to invite members and friends to a special visit to South China University of Technology (SCUT), one of China’s most prestigious national key universities under the Ministry of Education.
Tracing its roots back to 1918, SCUT has grown into a leading institution of engineering and interdisciplinary innovation, recognized globally for its excellence in materials science, chemistry, and computer science. Known as the “cradle of engineers and entrepreneurs”, SCUT combines cutting-edge research with strong industry partnerships and over 30 national research platforms, playing a vital role in China’s scientific and technological advancement.
15:30 – 17:30 | Casual meeting in Meeting Room 303, Building 30
SCUT team presentation
FinnCham presentation
Open sharing session (members are welcome to present)
Tea and light refreshments provided
17:30 onwards | Free activities & optional dinner with organizers
This visit is a great opportunity to learn about SCUT’s groundbreaking research, connect with leading academics, and exchange ideas with fellow members in a relaxed atmosphere.
A warm thank you to everyone who joined us in sunny Helsinki this summer! It was wonderful to reconnect with our members, exchange insights, and strengthen our Finland–South China ties during the holiday season.
Your engagement and support are what make the FinnCham South China community thrive — whether in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, or all the way up north in Helsinki.
On Friday, April 12th, FinnCham South China had the pleasure of hosting a member-exclusive visit to ANDRITZ China’s service and supply center in Foshan. The event offered our members a unique opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the operations of a leading global technology company, while also enjoying an evening of networking in a truly special setting.
Company Presentation & Discussion
The visit began with a warm welcome and an engaging company introduction, where ANDRITZ representatives shared the company’s history, core business areas, and its presence in China. The session was interactive, with insightful questions and comments from our members—ranging from sustainability and digitalization to the company’s long-term development outlook. ANDRITZ’s team provided thoughtful answers and field-specific expertise that sparked deeper conversations.
Guided Factory Tour
Equipped with safety gear, the group was then given a guided tour of the expansive manufacturing facility. Guests were impressed by the scale and efficiency of the site—and especially by the elegant, traditional Guangdong-style architecture. The design features beautifully curved rooftops, blending heritage aesthetics with industrial functionality, making the site itself a unique highlight of the visit.
Cultural and Historical Context
During the visit, guests were also introduced to the rich history of the local area, adding depth and cultural context to the day’s experience.
Rooftop BBQ & Networking
The visit concluded with a relaxed and delicious rooftop BBQ at the company premises. Surrounded by good food and a picturesque view, guests—many of whom had never met before—connected over shared interests and new ideas. It was an ideal setting for building relationships across industries and backgrounds.
Thank You
FinnCham South China extends our warmest thanks to ANDRITZ China and especially Mr. Markku Lehtinen for hosting us so graciously and making the evening both meaningful and memorable.
We look forward to many more opportunities to bring our members together in unique settings like this—where business, culture, and conversation naturally intersect.
FinnCham South China Business Visit: ANDRITZ, Foshan
FinnCham South China is pleased to invite its members to an exclusive factory visit at ANDRITZ in Foshan, Guangdong, on Friday, April 11, 2025. This visit offers a unique opportunity to explore the operations of a global leader in hydropower, pulp and paper, metals, and environmental and energy solutions.
About ANDRITZ
ANDRITZ China is dedicated to providing cutting-edge industry plants, equipment, digitalization, and automation services across multiple industries. With a factory area covering over 100,000 square meters in Foshan, the company plays a crucial role in the manufacturing sector in China. The visit will provide insights into their advanced production processes and innovative solutions. ANDRITZ has its headquarters at Graz, Austria, but Pulp & Paper business is originated from Finland. ANDRITZ acquired Kone Wood at 90’s and Ahlström Machinery early 2000.
Why Attend?
The event is designed to offer members a deeper understanding of how Finnish businesses operate in China, particularly in industrial and manufacturing sectors. The visit will also serve as an excellent opportunity to network with fellow professionals and exchange ideas, and gain firsthand knowledge of sustainable business practices and industry advancements.
In addition to the ANDRITZ factory tour, FinnCham South China will provide a brief introduction about its activities, highlighting ongoing initiatives and ways members can engage more actively in the Chamber’s network.
Following the visit, members are welcome to continue discussions and unwind at an optional, self-paid afterparty at nearby Lintiandian in Foshan, providing a relaxed atmosphere to strengthen connections and end the week on a positive note.
Event Details
Date: Friday, April 11, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Foshan Tianbao Road P.R. China 9 Tian Bao Road, West City Industry Zone, Chancheng District 528000 Foshan, Guangdong
How to get there:
You can take Line 2 subway from Guangzhou South Station to either
张槎站 and switch to bus 157 and ride four stops until 消防特勤队站, or
Who Can Attend: FinnCham South China & Hong Kong members. Non-members who would like to join the event, leave your contact information in the sign up survey and we will get back to you.
Event Program
Introduction to ANDRITZ
Factory tour
Short presentation by FinnCham South China & Hong Kong
Networking and refreshments at the roof top.
Optional afterparty at Lintiandian (self-paid)
This event is a great opportunity for members to gain business insights, make new connections, and enjoy a Friday afternoon in an engaging setting.
On January 9th, FinnCham South China had the honor of representing the Finnish business community at the grand opening of a new Metso Greater Bay Area Service and Supply Center in Plainvim Intelligent Industrial Park Foshan, hosted by Metso.
The event was a wonderful celebration of progress, collaboration, and tradition. Attendees were treated to a beautiful opening ceremony, featuring a vibrant and symbolic lion dance. This traditional performance not only brought energy and excitement to the occasion but also highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The traditional lion dance
It was delightful to connect with the talented and inspiring people behind this exciting new venture. Events like these underscore the importance of fostering strong relationships within our network and celebrating the achievements of our members.
FinnCham South China is committed to supporting and showcasing the incredible work of our member companies. This special day in Foshan was a testament to the value of collaboration and community in driving success.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Metso for inviting us to join this milestone event. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of their new service and supply center, and exploring further opportunities for collaboration.
Together, let’s continue building bridges, strengthening partnerships, and creating opportunities for a brighter future.
Chairwoman’s USK – New Metso Service and Supply Center, Foshan
Warm regards, Saara Fu Chairwoman, FinnCham South China
