Foreign-invested enterprises in Zhangjiagang, Suzhou, Jiangsu province, are continuously expanding their presence in emerging fields such as new-type industrialization, green and low-carbon development, the digital economy, and the circular economy, aiming to foster new quality productive forces.
An aerial view of PPG's Zhangjiagang plant. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
A shining example is PPG's Zhangjiagang plant. Headquartered in the United States, PPG Industries is a global leader in innovative paints, coatings, and specialty materials. Its Zhangjiagang facility is at the forefront of the company's efforts in smart and digital transformation, evolving into a green and intelligent production hub.
The entire production line at PPG's Zhangjiagang plant has now achieved full automation. The application of intelligent equipment and advanced control systems has significantly increased production efficiency, ensuring that the error margin for each barrel of paint is less than 0.1 grams. This has reduced the defect rate by at least 40 percent, decreased unit energy consumption by 20 percent, and improved production efficiency by 50 percent.
The plant is also dedicated to producing more environmentally friendly paint products. In 2023, the plant was recognized as part of Suzhou's first batch of 3A-level green factories, achieving both environmental and economic benefits.
In addition, the company is actively collaborating with the local community. It has undertaken painting and renovation projects for the walls of several kindergartens and primary schools. This year, the plant started offering career guidance classes for students majoring in chemical engineering at the Shazhou Professional Institute of Technology.