Fonterra CEO Embraces Growth Opportunities in China Amid Global Economic Challenges

Fonterra, participating in its sixth consecutive year at CIIE, introduces seven new products, including two specifically tailored for the Chinese market. The offerings span from probiotics and collagen to cheese, showcasing Fonterra's commitment to meeting evolving consumer preferences.

Hurrell highlights the increasing emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and nutrition among customers and consumers at CIIE. He underscores the strategic importance of China, where Fonterra has deep-rooted itself over four decades, viewing it as a crucial market for growth and development.

The CEO sees CIIE as a platform for fostering growth opportunities and strengthening partnerships between China and the world. Fonterra leverages the expo to enhance its brand reputation, build local collaborations, and establish stronger connections with customers and key stakeholders.

Noting the significance of innovation in Fonterra's success in China, Hurrell emphasizes the company's commitment to co-creating new products and applications with local customers and partners. He acknowledges the emergence of local Chinese players and underscores the importance of collaboration in ensuring food safety and quality.

Fonterra's focus on the Chinese market is evident in its investment initiatives, including the opening of the fifth Fonterra Application Center (FAC) in Shenzhen. Hurrell expresses confidence in the prospects of the Chinese market, emphasizing ongoing investments to stay close to customers, consumers, and application centers.

Looking ahead, Fonterra plans to expand its locally-driven innovation capabilities and open more FACs in China. Hurrell envisions a faster penetration into lower-tier cities, leveraging the CIIE as a facilitator for multinational companies like Fonterra to tap into the vast and dynamic market of China.