like a well-oiled machine

It's a typically hot muggy summer day in Beijing, China.  A visit to the state-owned company Sinopec--the world's largest petrochemical dealer--is daunting and yet revealing.

Precision and efficiency are continually revitalizing the traditionally poor quality image of Chinese production.  Global expectations are increasingly sophisticated and the Chinese are aiming to respond accordingly.  The enormous plant boasts of employees who show hard work, discipline and commitment to the company's success in the world market.

Days are long and pay is low.  Yet there seems to be a sense of pride in the air as workers believe in the promise of a brighter future.  Like a well-oiled machine, it is companies like Sinopec who are at the heartbeat of the ever-growing Chinese economy.