Yili Industrial Group based in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, has put a big data platform into use to manage its businesses, which range from forage planting and cattle breeding to the transport of dairy products.

The city of Hohhot, which houses two of China’s top dairy companies –– Yili and Mengniu –– is applying cloud computing technology to the development of industry, political affairs and other sectors.

An integrated industry associated with cloud computing has since sprung up. More than 200 companies engaged in e-commerce, software design and data analysis have started their businesses in the city.

At the local Shengle and Hongsheng industrial parks, many internet companies, including Baidu Inc and Alibaba, have expanded their operations in the field of cloud technology. 

"Hohhot is changing rapidly with the lives of local residents being ever improved as cloud computing is widely used these days," said Tian Jianjun, vice director of Hohhot development and reform commission.

Various services offered by rising online platforms supported by cloud computing, such as shopping, entertainment and health care, are gaining popularity among the public, bringing greater convenience to local residents.

Wang Yansong (L2), vice chairman of Mengniu Dairy, meets with Zeng Liang (R2), vice chairman of Baidu Inc, in Hohhot on Sept 1, 2014, to discuss the cooperation on a cloud computing project. The two sides cooperated on developing a “cloud farm” –– a platform where consumers can watch the production of dairy products in real time. [Photo/news.xinhuanet.com]