Sonova sees China as key growth and innovation hub

Sonova, the Swiss hearing care solution provider, will step up its localization efforts, expand its application of artificial intelligence, and accelerate digital innovation in China as the country plays an increasingly important role in its global growth strategy, according to its top executive.

Eric Bernard, CEO of Sonova, said China is not only one of the world’s largest hearing care markets, but also an important base for developing new products and service models that could later be introduced to other Asian markets and beyond.

“China ranks very high on my list of priorities,” Bernard said during his first visit to the country as the group’s CEO.

The speed of innovation, strong digital infrastructure, and availability of skilled talent make China an ideal market for testing new hearing care solutions, he added.

The Swiss company plans to give its China team greater autonomy, strengthen its research and development capabilities in Shanghai, and integrate artificial intelligence and digital tools into its products and services.

It will also expand remote hearing tests, online fitting support, and AI-enabled screening services to reach consumers beyond major cities where access to trained hearing care professionals remains limited.

China has about 220 million people with hearing loss, with the prevalence reaching about 45 percent among those aged 60 and above, according to information released by the National Health Commission last year.

Bernard said many people still regard hearing loss as an unavoidable part of aging rather than a health condition that can be effectively managed. Consumers often wait eight or nine years before seeking professional help.

To address these challenges, Sonova is working with governments, hospitals, universities, and local partners to raise public awareness, train hearing care professionals, and improve screening and intervention standards.

Bernard said China’s rapidly aging population, expanding middle-income group and growing focus on healthy aging will generate stronger demand for accessible hearing care.

To better capture these opportunities, Sonova will leverage the Hainan Free Trade Port to accelerate the introduction of innovative hearing care products and services to the Chinese market.

With more than 18,000 employees and operations spanning over 120 countries and regions, Sonova runs a manufacturing base in Suzhou, Jiangsu province and a research and development center in Shanghai.