"We will increase our investment but will only publicize it afterwards, because actions are more powerful than words," he said.

Since DuPont started doing business in China in the 1980s, it has invested $600 million, setting up 19 separate business entities.

In 2000, the company's growth rate for China hit 30 per cent, beating the 20 per cent experienced by its overall Asian business operations. However in 2001, DuPont China's growth rate slipped to 25 per cent with company officials attributing the slump to global pressures.

"We are pleased with the good performance here compared to other countries," Browne said. "The major reason is that the country has achieved a long and steady high growth rate."

He firmly believes this trend will continue with the efforts of the government to the benefit of industries like DuPont.

Core values

Another reason for DuPont China's success is its core values, which are aligned with the expectations of the Chinese Government, Browne said.

The company attaches high-value to environmental protection, safe production, fast development and management following ethical and transparent methods in line with government policy. This healthy relationship between the company and the government advances the growth of the business.

Browne also said that since February 2000, when he was nominated president of DuPont China, he has been very fortunate to have the support of such a highly-educated, self-motivated and capable work force.

"China is very wise to place a high-value on education," Browne said. "The efficient staff serve as a bridge to smooth over the barriers."

Cultural awareness

As a notable businessman, Browne offers suggestions for foreigners working in Shanghai and China on how to improve their business practises.

"The most important thing is to better understand what local customers want," he said.

The science, the products and the values of a multinational company will remain the same, however consumers in different countries and areas naturally vary. This requires a company to tailor products to meet the needs of local markets.

It is also helpful to understand the culture and the history of the community where the business operates.

"By doing this you can avoid making errors or being misunderstood," Browne said.

Browne used to work in Brazil where people are very physically intimate. It is quite normal on formal meetings to hug business partners.

American people who tend to be very open must increase their awareness of the different situation in China.

"These subtle issues make a difference and we have to keep it in mind," he said.

On July 19, DuPont will celebrate its 200th anniversary. As a major branch, DuPont China has moved to sponsor Shide Football Team in Dalian, the winners of last year's Grade A league matches.

The $3.9 million is not a free donation of course. The football team is contracted to make advertisements for the company over the next three years.

"We are very excited about it because it is DuPont's only sports sponsorship outside the States," Browne said. "The celebrations for this grand anniversary are to mark our progress and keep it going."

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