The initial stage of China’s automotive exports focused largely on delivering vehicles abroad; the next phase will require deeper integration into international markets. Automakers now face increasingly complex regulatory environments, including evolving requirements related to safety, environmental protection, and software systems and data governance. Differences in certification procedures and technical standards across markets can significantly increase the time and cost required for companies to introduce new models overseas.

Feng’s proposal calls for building a more systematic compliance and standards framework to support overseas expansion. Key measures include establishing shared compliance service systems for the industry, promoting the alignment of Chinese standards with international rules, and encouraging greater coordination among companies to reduce duplicated certification processes and lower market-entry costs.

Under his watch, GAC is already reflecting this approach. The company’s “One GAC” strategy meant that the company has expanded localized manufacturing and supply chains in overseas markets. Currently, they’ve established assembly plants in five countries, while strengthening sales and service to support a sustainable long-term growth abroad.

GAC’s overseas sales increased 47 percent year-on-year, leading growth among major Chinese automotive groups in 2025. GAC’s overseas momentum has continued into 2026. After achieving a strong start in January, GAC’s overseas sales in February surged 114 percent year-on-year. In the first two months of the year, GAC’s cumulative overseas sales increased 86 percent year-on-year, highlighting strong momentum in international markets.

Feng said that the move from exporting vehicles to exporting technology, ecosystems and standards may help strengthen China’s role in shaping the global automotive landscape.