China's economic transformation took center stage at the 2026 China Development Forum, where KONE Corporation President & CEO Philippe Delorme declared the nation 'the biggest market in the world' during an exclusive interview with CGTN's Zhang Lin.
Delorme emphasized China's accelerating modernization drive, stating it creates unprecedented opportunities for global businesses. As a leader in elevator and escalator manufacturing, KONE's operations span more than 60 Chinese cities, with the executive noting: 'Our technology solutions directly support urbanization goals through energy-efficient vertical transportation systems.'
The remarks come as international firms reassess Asian market strategies this year, particularly in advanced manufacturing sectors. Analysts highlight that China's push for smart city infrastructure and green buildings aligns with KONE's focus on IoT-enabled mobility solutions.
While Delorme didn't disclose specific investment figures, he confirmed ongoing collaborations with Chinese partners to develop AI-driven maintenance platforms. These innovations aim to address the unique demands of China's high-density urban centers, where vertical mobility remains critical to sustainable development.
