First Union Group Participates in ECCC Annual Conference: Advancing Industry Compliance and Building a Global Community of Shared Future

On December 6, 2024, the annual conference of the Electronic Cigarette Professional Committee of the China Electronics Chamber of Commerce (ECCC) was grandly held in Qianhai, Shenzhen,

 under the theme of "Strengthening Confidence, Opening New Horizons: Building a Global Community of Shared Future in the Industry." Li Yonghai, Chairman of Firstunion Group,

 Chief Science and Compliance Officer Dr. Li, and other representatives were invited to attend and participate in a roundtable forum to jointly discuss the future development of the global e-cigarette market and corporate compliance practices.  

The following day, under the invitation of the committee, representatives of industry associations and experts from various countries visited Firstunion Group's headquarters.

They conducted an in-depth exploration of Firstunion's R&D and product capabilities and engaged in extensive exchanges on key topics shaping the industry.  

Deep Discussions for Global Industry Compliance and Development  

During the ECCC annual conference's roundtable forum themed "Fulfilling Industry Responsibilities and Missions," Li Yonghai reflected on the founding and development of Firstunion Group: "We entered the e-cigarette industry in 2004 as one of its earliest pioneers, following the invention of e-cigarettes by Mr. Han Li in China. Over the past 20 years, Firstunion has navigated through challenges and opportunities, dedicating itself to the industry with intensive investments in R&D, continuously enhancing technological innovation and product development capabilities, and consistently delivering industry-leading technological solutions and products to customers and consumers."  

Through repeated introspection, Firstunion Group has gradually solidified and clarified its honorable mission of "Innovating Atomization Technology to Improve Human Health," alongside actively upholding its core values: putting customers first and creating value for them; prioritizing dedicated fighters; embracing hard work and perseverance; and adhering to integrity and honesty. We firmly believe that only by doing so can we achieve long-term stability and sustainable growth.

Li Yonghai stated that the challenges and opportunities stemming from regulatory oversight are more beneficial for the healthy and orderly development of the industry. As a member of the ECCC, Firstunion actively responds to the calls of the Professional Committee, being the first to sign the "Commitment to Compliant Operations" and strictly implementing it throughout the entire process of product R&D, production, and sales. While upholding stringent self-discipline and leading by example, Firstunion also hopes to collaborate with industry peers, partners, and global counterparts to foster mutual progress, maintain reverence for the industry, and jointly create a positive ecosystem across the entire value chain.

He further called on industry professionals to genuinely cherish the industry, appreciate the hard-earned progress that has been achieved, and pool collective wisdom and efforts to contribute to the advancement and development of the sector. He urged a focus on understanding the core needs of consumers and continuously offering products that truly meet consumer demands and enhance their experiences. "We firmly believe that as long as everyone works together, stays united, upholds their responsibilities, operates lawfully and in compliance, engages in healthy competition, adheres to innovation-driven strategies, embraces technological benevolence, commits to high-quality development, adopts long-term perspectives, fosters openness and exchange, and pursues win-win collaborations, the future of the industry will undoubtedly be brighter."

During the thematic roundtable forum titled "How Enterprises Can Achieve International Compliance," Dr. Li, Chief Science and Compliance Officer, further shared Firstunion Group's practical experiences in the realms of science and compliance.

First and foremost, compliance serves as the cornerstone for realizing Firstunion's corporate mission. Ensuring product compliance is deeply aligned with Firstunion's mission of "Innovating Atomization Technology to Improve Human Health." Secondly, adequate resources must be in place to support compliance efforts. Over the past five years, Firstunion has invested tens of millions of dollars in procuring equipment for scientific research and conducting studies on product safety and compliance. Currently, the group has established three specialized teams closely associated with compliance: the product compliance regulatory team, the R&D laboratory, and a multidisciplinary team of experts.

“As a pioneering enterprise with social responsibility, we are both willing and capable of supporting the continuous progress and healthy development of the industry,” said Dr. Li.

Ao Weinuo, Secretary-General of the Electronic Cigarette Professional Committee, commented in his speech: “Firstunion has been one of the first pioneers in the e-cigarette industry. Over the past two decades, they have remained focused on research and innovation, launching a series of groundbreaking products and technologies. Their innovative spirit and practical achievements have made a positive contribution to the development and progress of the industry.”

In-depth Inspection: Gaining Insights into Firstunion's Strengths  

On December 7, at the invitation of the Professional Committee, a delegation comprising leaders of industry associations from multiple countries, international market experts, and channel representatives arrived at Firstunion Group's headquarters for an on-site visit. The delegation toured Firstunion's exhibition hall, laboratory, and other facilities to gain a comprehensive understanding of the company's development history, product innovation, and global market strategies.  

In the corporate exhibition hall, Firstunion Group showcased its latest achievements in e-vapor technology, global patent deployment, and product innovation. The representatives highly recognized the company's accomplishments in product technology innovation and regulated market operations, underscoring its leading position in the industry, which is closely tied to its consistent investment in research and development and strict adherence to international standards.  

During the laboratory visit, the guests observed the company's quality management and product testing processes and expressed their deep appreciation for Firstunion's rigorous approach to product safety and quality control.  

Dr. Derek Yach, former Cabinet Director and Executive Director of Noncommunicable Diseases at the World Health Organization, shared his impressions following the visit: “I was impressed by the openness and excellence of Firstunion's research team. Their comprehensive research ranges from advanced materials science to pharmacodynamics and neuroscience, showcasing a wide array of innovative capabilities. Firstunion Group occupies a pivotal position in the industry, with the ability to lead the development of products that meet the highest health, safety, and environmental standards. This should inspire confidence in both consumers and regulatory authorities regarding the quality of their products.

Strengthening Confidence: Jointly Building a Global Community of Shared Future for the Industry

Through this annual conference and corporate visit, Firstunion Group has further enhanced communication with global industry associations, market experts, and distributors. Looking ahead, Firstunion Group will remain committed to its mission of 'Innovating Atomization Technology to Improve Human Health,' advancing the standardization and internationalization of the e-cigarette industry, and contributing to the creation of a healthier, more orderly, and open global market environment.

In his closing remarks, Li Yonghai stated: 'The progress of the industry is evident, and the vast market potential is beyond question. As a significant member of the global e-cigarette industry, Firstunion Group will actively respond to the international market's call for standardized development, continue to increase investment in technological innovation, and collaborate with global industry partners to build a community with a shared future for the industry, striving to achieve a mutually beneficial and win-win development model.'