Looking ahead

In the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), the Chinese government has prioritized green infrastructure in the environmental sector, encouraging more businesses to embrace clean and energy-conserving production.

"As China accelerates its green development, we will continue our investment strategy here, and our target to continue growths in this region will remain unwavering, which is growth in all areas and regions in China," Giros said.

With the recent takeover deal with Veolia, a new Suez will be created, which will be owned by a consortium of strong and reputable shareholders, determined to support an ambitious strategy to lead Suez to be a world-class, agile and innovative leader in environmental services.

"These shareholders are strong international investors in the green economy. They have existing investments in infrastructure including water, waste, transport and renewable energies, which will provide us with a lot of opportunities for synergies."

"Looking ahead to the new Suez, we will keep both the name and the brand. We'll also retain our French and European backbone, including all the technological capabilities. And we'll continue to develop in international markets. It is very clear Asia, particularly China, will be at the heart of these efforts," Giros said.

"Our new strategy will strengthen our existing position in international markets, especially in China which will be at the heart of these efforts, both in water and waste, in the municipal and industrial sectors."

With expertise in technology and design solutions, Giros said Suez will continue to maximize the water value chain and expand the reuse of water in China.

According to Giros, the group will also develop its waste businesses especially for hazardous waste, waste to energy, soil remediation and reuse.

"I can see smart solutions as one of the main growth drivers as well in our region in the next few years. We are going to establish an Asia platform for smart and environmental solutions, and use digital and smart technologies to support our clients and enhance their operational efficiency," she said.

"Our ambition here is very simple, to be the country's best environmental company. Not necessarily the biggest, not necessarily the cheapest, but the one that outperforms all others in operational excellence, stakeholder relations and sustainable asset management.

"The competition will increase, but the market is big enough to provide sufficient business for us to grow very healthily in the next 10 to 15 years," Giros said.