Benda, the motorcycle brand of Saturn Power Technology, captivates visitors at the EICMA 2025. [Photo/Benda]

Hangzhou companies are accelerating their global expansion, driven by innovation and a shift toward higher-value trade, as the city's strategy reshapes its market footprint.

At the recent EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy, Hangzhou Saturn Power Technology Co drew global attention with a hybrid concept bike featuring advanced design and engineering. The strong international response underscored the growing recognition of Chinese manufacturing for originality and technology.

Founded in 2016, the company has focused on high-performance motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, developing proprietary engines and smart systems. It is now scaling up production and targeting annual exports of 1 billion yuan ($144.7 million), supported by a new smart manufacturing base and expanding overseas operations.

The company's rise reflects a broader trend. From electric vehicles to renewable energy products, Hangzhou firms are moving beyond product exports to technology and brand expansion. In 2025, the city's exports of "new trio" products — electric vehicles, lithium batteries and solar products — surged nearly 50 percent.

Trade is also diversifying. Exports to emerging markets such as Latin America, the Middle East and Africa posted strong growth, alongside steady expansion in Belt and Road markets.

Officials say institutional innovation, including faster customs clearance and new cross-border logistics models, is further boosting efficiency.

As Hangzhou advances high-level opening-up, its companies are increasingly competing on innovation, reshaping their position in global value chains.

Zeekr, a Hangzhou-based new energy vehicle brand, opens a store in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]