Corning voices strong confidence in China with additional $500M investment

By Xia Fangting

U.S. specialty glass maker Corning made its third consecutive appearance at the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), which was held in Beijing from July 16–20, reaffirming its commitment to the Chinese market.

"As a window showcasing China's high-level opening up, the CISCE provides strong momentum for global supply chain cooperation and development," said Lin Chunmei, president and general manager of Corning Greater China, during an interview at the event.

This year marks Corning's 45th anniversary in China. Since entering the market in 1980, Corning has witnessed China's economic reform and industrial transformation.

"Corning's growth is closely tied to China's industrial development. Over the past four decades, China's supply chain has become highly advanced," Lin said.

Corning's booth at the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, July 17, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Corning]

China is now Corning's largest market outside the United States. "If I have to describe the Chinese market in one word, it's 'crucial.' In two words, it would be 'highly crucial,'" said Lin.

"To date, Corning's investment in the Chinese mainland has exceeded $9 billion, and this year, we will commit an additional $500 million," Lin announced.

Despite global uncertainty and moves by some nations to "decouple" from China, Lin said she remains upbeat about the country's economic outlook. 

"Despite rising global challenges, I believe China can overcome them," she said. "Corning's investments reflect our confidence in China's economic sustainability, long-term stability and potential."

She added that China's push to expand its opening-up policies, introduce more foreign investment incentives and improve the business environment had significantly boosted companies' confidence in the Chinese market.

The venue of the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, July 17, 2025. [Photo by Xia Fangting/Chinadiplomacy.org.cn]

The third CISCE gathered over 600 exhibitors from 75 countries and regions. Against a backdrop of rising protectionism and profound global challenges, the expo underscored China’s commitment to fostering resilient global supply chains through openness, innovation, and cooperation.