GetAhead Asia

We are thrilled to kick off our new series, "Underneath." Many exceptional professional manufacturers in India remain hidden beneath the surface due to limited marketing and a focus on domestic markets. Once screened throughly, we've observed two key strengths among manufacturers in India: their competitiveness at relatively low order quantities and their keen sense of quality. The results of our supply strategy and sourcing projects over the last two years are very encouraging. Over the next weeks and months, we will share more about how Indian manufacturing is transforming. Stay tuned for the next parts of "Underneath"! 🚀

Japan is setting the trend in battery technology, with companies like Toyota and Panasonic driving advancements in solid-state batteries. Toyota aims to enhance EV safety and efficiency with its solid-state battery efforts, while Panasonic collaborates with Tesla to cut battery costs and promote green energy, planning to extend EV range significantly with new technology.  Panasonic is currently developing a new facility in Kansas, scheduled to begin operations in 2025. The new facility is designed to enhance service for numerous U.S. clients, improving delivery and support throughout the region.   Murata Manufacturing is broadening solid-state battery applications to consumer tech and energy storage, showing Japanese innovation in various fields. These batteries make consumer devices lighter, more durable and improve renewable energy integration into power grids.   At GetAhead, we specialize in local support for battery technology sourcing, quality management, and supply chain breakdown analysis, focusing on the entire journey from battery systems to raw materials, all within close proximity to the source in Asia. Our team would like hear about your challenges in this field. We are keen to learn about your challenges in this domain and discuss how we can assist. #sourcing #procurement #japan Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gxdHTi6B  

Japan's electronics industry is rapidly evolving, highlighted by developments in organic electronics, AI, IoT, and 3D printing. Japan's shift towards organic electronics, particularly in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) technology, is revolutionizing the electronics manufacturing landscape. Companies like Sony and Panasonic are integrating OLEDs into various devices, including smartphones and TVs, due to their energy efficiency and flexibility, signifying a move towards more sustainable product designs.    The heart of organic electronics lies in their core components—organic molecules or polymers that conduct electricity, leading to innovations like organic semiconductors in OLEDs and organic photovoltaic cells. Unlike traditional methods, manufacturing these components typically involves less energy-intensive processes such as printing techniques, contributing to lower environmental impacts and manufacturing costs.   Leveraging these technological benefits, Japanese firms are developing a wide array of eco-friendly products from flexible displays to advanced sensors, highlighting the potential of organic materials in both consumer electronics and healthcare. This sustainable approach aims to mitigate issues such as the reliance on scarce materials and the carbon footprint associated with electronic devices, marking a significant step towards eco-friendly innovation and setting new global standards in the electronics sector.   #japan #sourcing #procurement Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gBz7UUZu

Apple's Vision Pro highlights the fusion of Japanese technological excellence and Western innovation. Japanese companies, including Sony and Kioxia, contribute significantly, supplying around 40% of its components—a significant increase from the mere 10% seen in the latest iPhone models. Sony enriches the user experience with its superior display technology, offering unparalleled clarity, while Kioxia enhances device performance with advanced memory solutions.   Apple's move to source a significant portion of its technology from Japan underscores the growing influence of Japanese manufacturing in introducing product innovations, especially as companies aim to diversify away from exclusive reliance on China. Over the last years, Japanese companies have enhanced cost competitiveness by reorganizing their supply chain and leveraging their strong local market presence in Thailand and Vietnam, with a growing number of projects in India.    From Tokyo and Osaka, GetAhead supports SMEs in sourcing innovative technologies from Japan and developing resilient supply chains. Feel free to approach us if you would like to learn more. #sourcing #procurement #japan   Read more here: https://lnkd.in/g8BrnhwE

The Malaysian automotive landscape is being transformed by PROTON, leveraging cutting-edge technologies like IoT, Connectivity, and cloud computing solutions to boost vehicle safety and production efficiency. The initiative, highlighted by a strategic partnership with Huawei, signifies a major shift towards modernizing manufacturing processes, resulting in smarter, safer, and more efficient vehicle production. Additionally, the collaboration between PROTON and Geely revitalizes the brand, introducing advanced features and designs in new models like the PROTON X70, and accelerating moves into electric and autonomous vehicle technologies, positioning PROTON for future competitiveness.   Furthermore, PROTON's recent MoA with smart Automobile at the 2023 China-ASEAN Expo aims to explore local assembly of smart vehicles, expanding their technological partnership within the Geely Group. This move, part of a broader strategy to introduce New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and enhance Malaysia's role as a regional EV hub, showcases PROTON's commitment to innovation and sustainability. #sourcing #procurement #malaysia   Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gtQ4M5_N

The aviation sector is transitioning towards Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to enhance environmental sustainability, with Malaysia playing a crucial role through its partnership between the Malaysian Aviation Group and Petronas. This collaboration establishes Southeast Asia's leadership in green aviation and the global push for eco-friendly practices. SAF, derived from sustainable resources like waste oils and microalgae, can reduce aviation's carbon emissions significantly.   Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap sets an increasing SAF blending mandate, aiming for 47% by 2050. The country is collaborating with companies like Japan's second largest oil refiner Idemitsu Kosan and exploring raw materials like palm oil waste for SAF production, with the state of Sarawak planning to start SAF production from microalgae by next year, targeting 100,000 barrels daily by 2030.   This move positions Malaysia as a key player in biofuel and green technology, leveraging its biodiversity and technological strengths. The nation's efforts contribute to global climate change combat and set a precedent for sustainable fuel development, potentially influencing global aviation industry standards and encouraging further investments in green technologies. #sourcing #procurement #malaysia   Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gDptkPdi  

Malaysia has become a significant player in the global aerospace supply chain, transitioning to a central hub for aerospace manufacturing and services. The government's initiatives, like the Malaysian Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030, alongside collaborations with global leaders such as Airbus and Boeing, have strengthened the industry's growth. These efforts are complemented by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation's (MATRADE) Global Sourcing & Partner Development Programme, which facilitates integration of local firms into the global market, enhancing their competitiveness and fostering international partnerships.   Moreover, Malaysia's focus on sustainability, through eco-friendly manufacturing processes and the development of sustainable aviation fuels, aligns with global environmental goals. This holistic approach offers global businesses new opportunities for outsourcing, joint ventures, and access to a booming market, all while adhering to sustainable and high-quality practices. #sourcing #procurement #malaysia Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gNQ2Tk8f

Tesla's establishment of a regional headquarters in Cyberjaya, Malaysia, signifies a key development in Southeast Asia's EV market, impacting the automotive landscape significantly. By importing and distributing Shanghai-assembled vehicles, #tesla is leveraging Malaysia's robust electrical and electronics (E&E) sector, boosting its supply chain and retail market. This move places Malaysia as a potential hub for EV sales and distribution, possibly influencing regional automotive strategies and fostering local investments.   The decision to choose Malaysia as a regional hub in South East Asia might be a result of Tesla’s shift to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, reducing reliance on Indonesian nickel. Tesla’s decision to enter Malaysia also aligns with cost reduction strategies and complements Malaysia's attractive market characteristics in electronics and semiconductors. Tesla’s strategic leverage of its China-based production to serve South East Asia, coupled with Malaysia's manufacturing strengths, highlights Tesla's aims in the region, setting a foundation for wider influences on automotive innovation and environmental initiatives in Southeast Asia. #sourcing #procurement #malaysia Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gizZiw8M

Supported by the International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI)  Fund of the US CHIPS Act, the the U.S.-Indonesia partnership seeks to diversify the semiconductor supply chain and enhance Indonesia's tech sector role. Focused on creating a sustainable ecosystem, this collaboration positions Indonesia as a key player in high-tech industries, leveraging its nickel resources for semiconductor and battery manufacturing. The partnership aims for economic growth, job creation, and reduced global dependence on specific manufacturing hubs.   Concrete steps of the partnership include BP Batam’s $5 billion manufacturing plant on Batam island and enhanced semiconductor training programs. This move mirrors the economic transformations seen in Taiwan and South Korea since the 1980s and 90s, driven by semiconductor investments. Indonesia's initiative, supported by international collaborations and technological transfers, like South Korea's LG battery project, positions it as an influential player in semiconductor manufacturing and global supply chains. This collaboration, particularly in the development of battery facilities, further integrates the country into the global tech and supply chain ecosystems. #procurement #sourcing #indonesia   Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gtQkQxNx

The 2024 Indonesian Presidential Election brings significant shifts, with Prabowo aiming to continue and expand on the outgoing president Jokowi's infrastructure and economic reforms. Aspiring targets such as propelling Indonesia into the top five global economies by 2045 and building three million new homes mark Prabowo's presidency. These initiatives are anticipated to stimulate industries like construction, defense, and manufacturing.   Under Prabowo, Indonesia is expected to see growth in construction, defense, automotive, EVs, and electronics industries, enhancing components like building materials, defense equipment, and automotive parts.  Prabowo's agenda also includes continuing major infrastructure projects like the capital city relocation and expanding real estate development, which could provide substantial opportunities for international companies.    This growth, driven by shifts towards cleaner energy and digitalization, alongside Indonesia's rich nickel reserves, presents new sourcing and partnership opportunities for the international procurement community. Firms should focus on engaging with Indonesian suppliers, complying with local regulations, and leveraging government incentives to align with the country's industrial expansion, especially in EVs and electronics, to optimize their global procurement strategies.   #indonesia #sourcing #procurement Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gAp95Vkc