Building a Business Empire with my Technological System

Chapter 154: Lobbying

April 2nd, 2026.

In the heart of Beijing, within the towering glass facade of the Ministry of Commerce building. Mr. Wei was being escorted by an aide of the Minister of Commerce to its office.

"Here…Mr Wei," said the aide as she stepped aside and then extended her arm towards the office door marked with the emblem of the Ministry of Commerce. Mr. Chen Wei nodded appreciatively and entered the spacious office where Deputy Minister Liu Chang awaited him.

The office was functional and modern, with a large desk dominating the space, behind which Liu Chang stood up to greet him.

"Mr. Wei, it's good to see you again," he said, extending a hand.

As they settled into their seats, the meeting quickly shifted to business. Liu Chang was direct, asking,

"So, Mr. Wei, to what do I owe the pleasure of meeting the CEO of the JinkoSolar?"

"Mr. Liu, I'm here to discuss a matter that directly impacts our company's future," Mr. Wei began with a serious tone. "There's a rising competitor, SolaraTech Corporation from the Philippines, led by Michael Reyes. They are making significant inroads in the global solar energy market, and I believe they pose a threat to our position, especially here in China."

"Their advancements in solar technology are not to be underestimated. They are gaining traction and could potentially disrupt our market here. I urge the Ministry to consider blacklisting SolaraTech Corporation from entering the Chinese market. It's imperative we protect our interests and maintain our leading position in the solar industry."

"But SolaraTech hasn't entered our market."

"Mr. Liu, while SolaraTech has not officially entered our market, their intentions are clear, and their capabilities are growing," Mr. Wei continued, stressing the urgency of the situation. "They have been expanding aggressively in Europe and Asia, and it's only a matter of time before they turn their attention to China. We must be proactive in safeguarding our industry and market share."

"So you want me to block SolaraTech's product entry into China so you can remain at the top, is that what you are asking me?"

"Yes…and do you think it'll be in the good image of China if we let a Filipino solar panel enter our country? From a country that we are in dispute with regarding the South China Sea? I'm asking for a total ban on the import of SolaraTech's products. It's not just about JinkoSolar's market position; it's about national interest and economic security," Mr. Wei explained, his tone becoming more intense.

Liu Chang leaned back in his chair, contemplating the implications. "I understand your concerns, Mr. Wei, and the broader picture you're painting regarding national interests and security. However, any decision to ban imports from SolaraTech would require careful consideration and alignment with our trade policies and international obligations.

For example, China is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and we must adhere to its rules and agreements."

Liu Chang elaborated. "Implementing a total ban on imports from a specific company, especially without a justifiable cause under WTO regulations, could lead to trade disputes and potentially damage our international relations."

"But who really gives a crap about the WTO?" Wei exclaimed. "It's not like we have to abide by it? And besides, no one would really care if we ban out a single company."

Liu Chang raised his eyebrows, responding with a calm yet firm tone, "Mr. Wei, while I understand your frustration, we cannot simply ignore international regulations and agreements. China's commitment to the WTO and its principles is not only about following rules but also about maintaining our credibility and stability in global trade relations.

Disregarding these commitments could have far-reaching consequences, not just for JinkoSolar but for the entire Chinese economy."

Wei sighed. "Oh come on, stop sounding so idealistic and a politician who plays by the book. I don't think you know that you have a lot of scandals. If those scandals were to come to light, it could end your career, Mr. Liu. This is not just about JinkoSolar or SolaraTech; it's about us finding a mutual understanding, wouldn't you agree?"

Liu Chang's face hardened as he met Wei's gaze. "Are you threatening me?"

"Let's not call it a threat, Mr. Liu. Consider it an opportunity for mutual benefit. We can support each other. JinkoSolar can contribute to the national agenda and support economic growth. In return, we seek your assistance in monitoring and, if necessary, regulating foreign entities like SolaraTech that could threaten our market dominance and national interests."

Liu Chang paused, considering Wei's proposal. "What you're suggesting walks a fine line, Mr. Wei. However, I'll hear your offer."

"How about ten million dollars?" Wei offered.

"Come on, you can go higher than that. Ten million dollars is simply a cent compared to the charges I could be facing."

Wei's eyebrows rose slightly, then he leaned closer, lowering his voice, "Alright, let's make it fifty million dollars then. But this isn't just for any temporary measure; we expect comprehensive support in keeping our competitors at bay, specifically SolaraTech."

Liu Chang considered this, his expression neutral yet thoughtful. "Fifty million, you say? That's a significant amount."

"Why do you sound like it's not enough?" Wei paused, sensing an underlying demand in Liu's tone.

Liu Chang met his gaze squarely. "Mr. Wei, in the grand scheme of things, fifty million might work for now. Sooner or later, the SolaraTech solar panels will enter China. We are delaying it until you reverse-engineer the technology or develop something superior. This is a temporary measure, not a permanent solution."

Wei nodded, understanding the stakes. "Understood. So, do we have a deal?"

"Of course we do, I'll send a proposal to the President about it," Liu Chang replied.

"Very well, thank you for your cooperation, Mr. Chang," Wei said as he rose to his feet. Liu rose to his feet as well and shook Wei's hand.

With that, the two left the room.

***

Meanwhile, in the Philippines. Michael was reading the news on his tablet until there was a notification about the global news.

Michael tapped on the notification, and his eyes widened as he read the headline: "China Implements New Trade Restrictions on Renewable Energy Products." The article detailed China's sudden and unexpected regulatory changes affecting foreign solar panel manufacturers. While it didn't mention SolaraTech directly, the implications were clear.

Michael felt a surge of concern. "This could be about us. He had done it!"