After more than 30 years of development, the company"s annual sales have exceeded 1 billion yuan, growing into one of the world"s largest manufacturers and retailers of upholstered leather furniture, with products sold around the world.

　　Having been deeply rooted in China"s manufacturing sector for many years, he has developed a firsthand understanding of the country"s policy environment and economic development. During this year"s two sessions, the draft outline of the 15th Five Year Plan (2026-30) laid out strategic arrangements to accelerate high-level scientific and technological self-reliance and strength, and to lead the development of new quality productive forces.

　　Lichtenberg said, "At first glance, you might think that since I am not in robotics or AI, it has little to do with my business... But in fact, many manufacturing and related industries can benefit from these technologies by improving efficiency and innovation."

　　In his company, Chinese-made robots are already used in production, while AI tools are also applied in research and development as well as marketing, scaling up and also helping control costs.

　　Beyond opportunities, the Chinese market is also very competitive. Lichtenberg notes that Chinese companies learn quickly and constantly improve.

　　"You need to enter the Chinese market, learn from it, and cooperate with local peers," he said. "Understand both your industry and related sectors, use Chinese technologies to improve your business. Failing to gain an edge in China might eventually hurt your competitiveness elsewhere."