Workshop 18 is designated by Chinese industry officials as a model demonstration facility for Beijing's plan to upgrade its corporate champions so they can better compete in the world, a policy known as "Made in China 2025." The adoption of robots, big data and other technological advancements is seen by Chinese leaders as key to developing domestic giants in areas such as power equipment, electric cars, marine products and chips--sectors it aims to become largely self-sufficient by the middle of the next decade. Sany, one of China's three big heavy machinery makers, said the integration of technology has increased capacity, shortened order-delivery times and slashed operational costs, all by at least 20%. The company is also betting that the technology will enable it to build a reputation for innovation and quality, rather than for lower prices for copycat products that made Sany a big player domestically. "The future of the heavy-equipment industry will rely as much on software and data as it does on hardware," Sany's Chief Information Officer Pan Ruigang said. The "Made in China 2025" strategy has drawn criticism in Washington, with members of President Trump's administration accusing Beijing of using subsidies and protectionism to unfairly bolster Chinese companies.