International Faculty Visit Shiyan Automotive Enterprises to Explore Africa-Oriented Cooperation
Published: July 2026 
Source: Li Zheng (SFST/SGRC-WA Relations Office)
International faculty members from the School of Foreign Studies and Trade at Hubei University of Automotive Technology (HUAT), together with the Secretary-General of the Shiyan Automobile Parts Industry Association, visited Baolu Automobile Industry (Shiyan) Co., Ltd. and Fu'erdun Technology on July 6. The visit, which forms part of the second league, aimed to deepen understanding of Shiyan's automotive manufacturing ecosystem and identify practical opportunities for Africa-oriented industrial cooperation.
During the visit, the delegation toured Baolu's product exhibition area and production workshops, observing key processes including chassis development, complete-vehicle assembly, electrophoretic coating and quality control. Discussions with enterprise representatives focused on export channels, after-sales service, payment arrangements, product adaptation for overseas climates, and market-entry strategies for West African countries.
At Fu'erdun Technology, the faculty members learned about the company's filter products and distribution model. The exchanges highlighted the importance of flexible agency arrangements, reliable service support, and careful attention to country-specific regulations when entering African markets.
The activity was organized through the Sino-Ghana Research Center for West Africa (SGRC-WA), based in the School of Foreign Studies and Trade. According to Dr. Lemuel Gbologah, Director of SGRC-WA, direct engagement with local enterprises helps researchers better understand Shiyan's industrial capacity while enabling companies to receive informed advice on regulatory conditions, consumer needs, logistics, and business practices in African markets.
The visit also strengthened faculty members' appreciation of Shiyan's industrial strengths and the export potential of its automotive supply chain. SGRC-WA will continue to promote university-industry-research collaboration among HUAT, local enterprises, and international partners through policy research, market analysis, academic exchange, and industry engagement. These efforts support Shiyan's broader development as a modern automotive and new-energy vehicle hub with growing international reach.
