Ningbo, one of China's historic port cities, showcased its smart manufacturing capabilities and global trade strategy during the Encounter & Insight: Dialogue Between Ningbo, China and Colombo, Sri Lanka, held in Colombo on July 4. The event brought together representatives from the two port cities to discuss integrated port-city development, trade connectivity and cultural exchange.

The dialogue highlighted Ningbo's transition from a traditional manufacturing hub to a centre for advanced industrial production, supported by digital transformation and technology-driven exports. According to official statistics, the city's exports of intelligent equipment, including industrial robots and mechanical arms, reached 440 million yuan in 2025, an increase of more than 40 per cent year on year. During the first five months of 2026, exports of mechanical and electrical products totalled 247 billion yuan, accounting for 58 per cent of Ningbo's total exports.

Exports of new energy products, including electric vehicles, lithium batteries and photovoltaic products, also recorded strong growth, with the electric vehicle segment registering a year-on-year increase of 215.9 per cent.

An accompanying exhibition featured Ningbo's export-oriented manufacturers alongside products ranging from AI-powered translation glasses and intelligent outdoor equipment to digital home appliances and smart water meters. Organisers said several of these products are already being used in Sri Lanka, while Colombo Port serves as a transshipment hub for exports to Europe, the Middle East and other international markets.

The event also highlighted Ningbo's industrial digitalisation programme, under which manufacturing enterprises have adopted automated production lines, intelligent factories and specialised technologies to enhance global competitiveness.

As part of the programme, Sri Lanka's first "One-Meter Cultural Space" was inaugurated to promote Ningbo's cultural heritage alongside its industrial products, reinforcing cultural exchange as part of the city's international outreach strategy.

The Ningbo-Colombo dialogue underscored the role of ports, manufacturing and cultural cooperation in strengthening trade links along the Maritime Silk Road.