ZTE Ships 500 Millionth Mobile Devices

China’s ZTE celebrated the 15th anniversary of its terminals division with the production of the company’s 500 millionth handset, becoming the first Chinese mobile device brand to achieve the landmark.

The company has also outlined the terminals division’s strategies to drive further growth.

“Boutique devices will be the focus for ZTE,” said ZTE’s Chairman Mr. Hou Weigui. “The company will ensure the mobile device business will have all the resources and support needed to develop and grow.”

Efforts to strengthen ZTE’s brand and engage consumers will be a key part of ZTE’s strategy.

“It is crucial for ZTE to upgrade our brand and build brand equity,” Executive Vice President Mr. He Shiyou said. “ZTE’s technology stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s leading companies, but the value of our brand is still under-appreciated.”

While it took ZTE 10 years to manufacture 100 million handsets after establishing the terminals division in 1998, only five years were required for volumes to grow from 100 million to 500 million.

“ZTE’s objective is to reach a global top-3 position within three years, and build a world top-5 brand,” Mr. He said.