The Center was established in 1997 as the first-of-its kind joint venture between NPES - The Association for Suppliers of Printing Publishing and Converting Technologies and Shanghai Printing Group Cooperation (SPGC). It was supported by both the US Department of Commerce and the China Press and Publication Administration. The establishment of the Center was viewed by the world printing industry as a milestone, which marked a new era in the printing industry's cooperation on a global scale. It signaled the US suppliers' commitment to enter and compete in China - the world's largest emerging market. It also indicated the Chinese printing industry's commitment to upgrade its technology and advance its drive toward a market economy.

Serving as both a window and a bridge, the Center offers an extraordinary opportunity to printing equipment manufacturers, especially to NPES members, in promoting trade business in the greater China region and in providing Chinese graphic arts professionals a firsthand look at the latest and most influential technologies in operation. With support from NPES member companies with the most advanced equipment and technology, the Center is focused on organizing live equipment demonstrations, conducting high level technology seminars and conferences, participating in major regional trade events, and introducing the most current industry trends and technology innovations to the Chinese end users.

Since its establishment, the Center has broadened its influence in the Chinese printing industry, making it an important place for printing professionals to learn the latest technology before considering purchasing. It has established extensive cooperation with major media and graphic arts organizations and it has effectively promoted NPES member companies through its three major functions of Marketing, Training, and Demo/Production services and programs.

The Center has became a "must-see" place for Chinese and international professionals, organizations and government agencies. Highly regarded by China and world printing industry professionals, the Center receives an average of 500 visitors annually from China, Africa, Central Asia, Asia Pacific, Europe, and South and North America.

Today the Center continues its tradition in developing innovative programs and services for both the US suppliers and the Chinese end users. Following the establishment of its website, the Center constructed the first true duo language E-commerce website in 2003; held the first conference on environmental printing in 2003, and established an environmental printing website in 2006. Today, the Center serves as a true "Center" in the Asia Pacific region, taking major steps in strengthening cooperation with regional industries in an effort to promote international trade. Focusing on its mission of Innovation, Quality, and Service, the Center continues its great contribution to the global printing industry.

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