Taizhou Stories Around the World | Taizhou entrepreneur expands global footprint from Saudi Arabia

Editor's Note: Over the past three decades since Taizhou was established as a prefecture-level city in Jiangsu, tens of thousands of people from the city have ventured abroad in pursuit of their dreams, making their mark in business, science, technology, culture and other fields. The "Taizhou Stories Around the World" series shares the stories of Taizhou natives who have built careers abroad and contributed to global exchanges.

Lu Jianguo with a member of the Saudi royal family. [Photo/WeChat account: tzwq2018]

Starting with a foothold in Saudi Arabia's specialized power supply sector, Taizhou entrepreneur Lu Jianguo has built a cross-border business across the Middle East and North Africa.

Lu founded S. Unity in 2018 and launched its overseas brand, Vision Power. After two years of work, the company secured exclusive Chinese operating rights in Saudi Arabia's specialized power supply sector and has since fulfilled 77 orders for the country's defense industry.

Using Saudi Arabia as a launchpad, the company has expanded into other markets across the Middle East and North Africa. It secured a 25-year energy equipment contract in Iraq and established a local R&D and manufacturing base in Algeria, creating a business model that connects power infrastructure with international production and trade.

S. Unity's branch in Iraq. [Photo/WeChat account: tzwq2018]

The company's growth has also led to tangible benefits at home. Over the past three years, it has generated more than 360 million yuan ($53.65 million) in revenue and paid over 30 million yuan in taxes, while creating more than 300 jobs. It has also employed more than 30 veterans and military family members. Lu has further invested more than 2 million yuan to improve the living environment in his hometown.

As executive vice-president of the General Association of Chinese Enterprises in Saudi Arabia, he has also helped a number of Taizhou companies explore overseas markets and pursue partnerships.