The Growth of India and China:
Harnessing the Fastest Expanding Automotive Markets in the World

Thursday 16th October 2008
One Birdcage Walk, Westminster, London

09:30 Registration & Morning Refreshments
10:15 Chair's Welcome and Introduction
Zheng-Xiao GUO, University College London, Professor - Materials Chemistry
10:30 Panel Session One: China and India’s Importance in the Global Automotive Market
Andres Garcia-Bermudez, European Commission, Directorate-General for Trade
Eric Wallbank, Automotive Director - Ernst & Young
  • Understanding the Market and Production Shift
    • Creation of a New Customer Base and Consumer Needs
    • Cultural, Labour and Workforce Characteristics
    • Current Economies, Growth and Potential Projections
    • Industry Growth: Exponential versus Steady
    • Where Does The Sustainable Competitive Advantage Lie?
  • Synchronizing Core Business Strategy for Successful Operations Internationally
    • Differences in Consumer Demand and Characteristics Between India and China
    • Key Growth Strategies – Unlocking the Potential of Expansion
    • Strength of India’s Manufacturing Economy and China’s R&D Expertise
    • Closing the Experience Gap in Quality Innovations
    • How Can Government Initiatives, Taxation and Privatization Drive Change Forward?
11:30 Morning Refreshments
11:40 Open Floor Discussion & Debate with Panel One
12:30 Networking Lunch
13:30 Panel Session Two: Harnessing the Potential Energy from Expansive Growth
Zheng-Xiao GUO, University College London, Professor - Materials Chemistry
Stewart Ferguson, China Britain Business Council
  • Immediate and Long Term Challenges
    • Physical Roadway Infrastructure, Air Quality and Logistics
    • Conflicts in Partnerships, Intellectual Property Ownership and Consolidation
    • Meeting India and China’s Need for Global Energy
    • The Crucial Role of Government – Implications on Business and Development
    • A Chance to Start from Scratch – Fuel, Networks, and Driver Influence
  • Benefits and Risks to the American and European Automotive Industries
    • Raw Materials, Labour and Manufacturing Shifts
    • Importing and Exporting Rates
    • Weakness and Recovery of American and European Economies
    • Mergers and Capital Investment
    • Inflationary Fears
14:30 Afternoon Refreshments
14:40 Open Floor Discussion & Debate with Panel Two
15:30 Chair's Summary and Closing Comments
15:35 Networking Drinks Reception

** Please note that the programme is subject to change without notice **