Jointly-organized by Chinese Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC) and R.L.Polk & Co., USA, "The 2007 China Automotive Export Exchange International Conference" was held on October 12, 2007 at the Great Wall Sheraton Hotel in Beijing.

Professionals and representatives from car manufacturers participated in the discussion and analysis on topics such as:

• The problems faced by Chinese domestic brands;
• The latest China automobile export regulations;
• The investment environment in the US market;
• Technical standards and trends of the US and Russia automobile market, etc.

Statistics indicated the export volume of Chinese entire vehicles and spare parts in 2005 had reached 1.92 billion USD and 15.23 billion USD respectively. While in 2006, China had exported 324,000 units of entire vehicles, and the total volume was 3.12 billion USD, growing by 87.8% and 97.3% separately. In line with the expansion in number of export enterprises, as well as rise in export volume, however, the inconsistency of regulations among various countries has been drawing increasing attention. This reveals the insufficient knowledge Chinese enterprises possess in terms of foreign market and corresponding laws as well as standards.

Thus, The 2007 China Automotive Export Exchange International Conference was held for the purpose of calling for all Chinese domestic automakers to consciously maintain market order, and contribute to boosting China auto export as well as also enhancing strength of Chinese automobile brands. Our target is a brand new path for Chinese brands. Rather than simply copying the way of South Korean and Japanese enterprises, we must learn lessons from their experiences and focus more on improving our own ability at the same time. There will be an emphasis on both quality and an in-depth study of the market trends.

Distinguished guests on this grand occasion were: Mr. Zhao Hang (Director of CATARC), Mr. Zhi Luxun (Chief of Department of Electromechanical Products & Science and Technology Industry, Ministry of Commerce), senior market analysts from Polk USA, US dealer representatives, experts in the auto industry, major exporters such as Shaanxi Automobile Group Co. Ltd., FAW, Dongfeng Motor Corporation, Yutong, Chery, Henan Shaolin Auto Co. Ltd., Great Wall, Beiqi Foton Motor Co. Ltd., Jiangxi Changhe, Soueast Motor, and representatives from some potential Chinese exporters.

Great Wall Automobile, particularly, shared its experiences and difficulties regarding exportation in the past years with all participants. Based on the tremendous development, starting from 240 units of Dier exported to Iraq and achieving orders of 32,000 units during 2006, there was a profound analysis of its own gains and losses. According to the Great Wall Automobile, major problems that hinder Chinese enterprises from expanding their exportation are: comparatively low recognition of Chinese brands, limited brand influence and lack of experiences and human resources in overseas market exploration. All in all, the efforts of Great Wall set a positive example for those existing and potential enterprises.

Approaching the U.S. Automotive Market
Lonnie Miller, Director, Industry Analysis R. L. Polk & Co.

Current Status of Chinese Automotive Exporting and Policy
Zhi Luxun, Department of Electromechanical Products & Science and Technology Industry, Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China

The Russian and The South American Automotive Market 
Katarina Bee, Senior Analyst of R. L. Polk & Co

Michigan's Automotive Industry
Thomas Manganello, MICHAuto Chair and Co-Founder

How to Sucessfuly Manage M&A
Warner Norcross & Judd, Automotive Industry Group Chair

Brief Introduction to Russian Vehicle Import Regulations
Geng Lei, Chief Engineer of National Automotive Standardization Technical Committee

ConferencePassenger Vehicle U.S. Market Entry
Jeffrey Watts, Principal, Deloitte Automotive Practice

Great Wall Motor’s opportunities and challenges in a globalized market
Wang Shihui, Export Department Manager

How To Grow Sales in a Declining Market
David A. Metter ,Chief Marketing Officer of MileOne

Navigating Entry into the U.S. Auto Retailing Market
Detroit Auto Dealers Association, Immediate Past President Carl Galeana