Image Annual. 2004

Author: Baiye Media
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features: "The 21st century is China's century," does this mean it is China's manufacturing century or China's brand century? For many years, the Chinese government has implemented an "foreign-invested-led" economic policy. Imagine if one day, when China's cheap labor advantage no longer exists, what will your business and nation rely on? The starkly different economic structures and current situations of Latin American countries and neighboring South Korea seem to teach us nothing. "Foreign automakers provide technology and specialized expertise to 'add value' to Chinese joint ventures. In contrast, their Chinese partners, apart from providing low-cost labor and sales channels, contribute almost nothing to actual operations and management." Perhaps Carlos Ghosn's remarks as the president of Nissan cannot make the Chinese automakers who rely on policy protection blush, but they certainly shame other economists in the country. Without brands, we will forever be reduced to mere processing factories in others' backyards—just like the current state of Latin American countries is the future of China. Brands are not simply a logo and a slogan, but certainly, these elements must accurately convey the brand's essence and positioning. Since the late 20th century, China's graphic design industry has learned from foreign works and accumulated its own experience. Today, although still immature, it is no longer just imitation. With the world becoming increasingly close, our equipment and technology have caught up with the world (unlike other industries, which can use this as an excuse for being behind), what we need are opportunities and platforms to communicate with our peers and the world. We hope this series of annuals, ChinaGraphics, can help promote the growth of Chinese brands and witness the journey of graphics in China. Brands may not be just the responsibility of business operators and advertising promoters; they should be a matter that the whole society pays attention to and supports for growth. Professionals in the graphics industry must take the lead and walk the right path.