On December 30, 2025, renowned scholar and former Singaporean ambassador to the United Nations, Kishore Mahbubani, shared his insights following a visit to Zhuhai, a rapidly growing city in southern China. As part of South’s “Inside China” series, Mahbubani’s experience underscored Zhuhai’s advancements in emerging industries, particularly highlighting innovations in the low-altitude economy.
Insights into Low-Altitude Aviation
During his visit, Mahbubani observed the significant impact of low-altitude aviation at the Tangjia Port Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Logistics Operations Base. He noted how drones are utilized across various sectors, including island inspections, firefighting, aquaculture, and logistics. A standout moment for him was witnessing EHang become the first company globally to obtain commercial airworthiness certification for passenger-carrying unmanned eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft. These aircraft are now approved for commercial operations and are being exported to multiple international markets.
Mahbubani remarked, “In many areas, China is now number one in technology,” a sentiment that reflects the burgeoning capabilities within the nation’s technological landscape. The establishment of China’s first cross-border low-altitude airspace management system, covering approximately 3,600 square kilometers across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, further emphasizes Zhuhai’s role as a leader in this industry, with over 75 companies involved in the low-altitude economy.
Transforming Traditional Manufacturing
The visit also highlighted the transformation of traditional manufacturing practices in Zhuhai. At Gree Electric Appliances (Zhuhai Jinwan) Co., Ltd., Mahbubani witnessed how automation has drastically enhanced operational efficiency. The company continues to increase its exports, even in the face of higher US tariffs. General Manager Chen Huadong shared that over 70 percent of Gree’s overseas sales are now under its own brands, with products tailored to diverse climates, ranging from extreme heat in the Middle East to the frigid temperatures in northern Europe.
Mahbubani expressed his admiration for Gree’s advancements, stating, “Visiting Gree was a mind-blowing experience.” This encounter exemplifies the city’s commitment to innovation and adaption in a competitive global market.
Another significant stop on Mahbubani’s journey was Hengqin, home to the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone. This initiative has facilitated Macao’s economic diversification, with tens of thousands of residents and numerous Macao-funded enterprises now thriving in the area.
Reflecting on his experiences in Zhuhai, Mahbubani acknowledged the remarkable pace of change in China. “The world has changed,” he said. “People should come and see it for themselves.” His observations underscore the importance of firsthand experiences in understanding the rapid developments occurring in innovative cities like Zhuhai.
As China continues to evolve and demonstrate leadership in technology and manufacturing, the insights from Mahbubani’s visit serve as a compelling invitation for global observers to engage with the dynamic transformations taking place in the region.
