Trade concerns top Chinese ambassador’s discussion at Fuyao

There, she met with more than a dozen Dayton-area business and political leaders. Together, they discussed simmering trade tensions between the nations — and the way that Fuyao’s presence in Moraine can perhaps point a way through and beyond those tensions.

Fuyao employs about 2,000 people in what was once an empty auto assembly plant in Moraine.

RELATED: Fuyao's Moraine operation is now profitable

Though Fuyao is owned by a Chinese-based global auto glass manufacturer, as Jeff Liu, Fuyao Glass America president, put it: “Fuyao Glass America is not a Chinese company. It is an American company.”

“I can tell you very frankly that we are very worried today,” Qiyue told the local assembly of leaders, referring to at-times escalating political rhetoric indicating a possible “trade war” between the United States and China.

The ambassador also said, however, that Fuyao provides a “case study” of how trade and cooperation between the countries can be mutually beneficial.

“Within a short period of time, they have created a miracle,” Qiyue said. “They have created so many jobs in Dayton, Ohio.”

A consul general oversees a nation’s consular district, offering Chinese citizens and “compatriots” consular services and protection. Qiyue oversees a New York City office that represents the People’s Republic of China, offers visa and passport services and manages cultural and economic affairs in 10 states, including Ohio.

She has served as Chinese ambassador to Belgium and Indonesia and has worked at the United Nations headquarters in New York and Chinese Permanent Mission to the United Nations.

Fuyao Glass Industry Group acquired a former General Motors assembly plant in Moraine in 2014, transforming it into what the company says is the world’s largest factory producing original equipment and aftermarket automotive safety glass.

MORE: Senator wants answers in GM's Ohio layoffs 

Local leaders told the ambassador they hope Fuyao’s experience in the area will lead to more investment.

“Attracting more of the Fuyao supply chain is critical,” said Julie Sullivan, executive vice president of regional development for the Dayton Development Coalition.