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Billionaire Profile
Cao Kejian
Global Rank
#3221

Cao Kejian

CEO, Air compressors
Quzhou, China
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.11B
Estimated based on Air compressors stock value as of August 24, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
63
Source
Air compressors
Industry
Manufacturing
Citizenship
China

Biography

Cao Kejian, a prominent Chinese businessman, chairs Zhejiang Kaishan Compressor, the largest manufacturer of air compressors and rock drilling equipment in China. With a current net worth of $1.5 billion, Cao's wealth stems from his significant ownership in Kaishan, a company he took public in 2011. His career began with a focus on chemical machinery, leading him to build a global industrial leader with a strong presence in the global market. He has been recognized for his vision, technical expertise, and commitment to innovation and quality in the industrial sector.

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Data Updated
Aug 23, 2026
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Wealth Over Time

Net Worth History

YearNet Worth
2026$1.11B
2025$1.50B
2024$1.50B

Portfolio Holdings

Kaishan Holding Group Co., Ltd.

Kaishan Holding Group Co., Ltd.

300257manufacturing
$17.8B
Holdings Value
Ownership
56%
Quzhou, China
Founded 2002

In-Depth Profile

Cao Kejian, a prominent Chinese businessman, chairs Zhejiang Kaishan Compressor, the largest manufacturer of air compressors and rock drilling equipment in China. With a current net worth of one point five billion dollars, Cao's wealth stems from his significant ownership in Kaishan, a company he took public in two thousand eleven. His career began with a focus on chemical machinery, leading him to build a global industrial leader with a strong presence in the global market. He has been recognized for his technical expertise and commitment to innovation and quality in the industrial sector.

Cao Kejian, born in April nineteen sixty-two, graduated from Zhejiang University of Technology with a degree in chemical machinery. His career progression saw him at the helm of a company with roots tracing back to the nineteen fifties. The entity that would become Zhejiang Kaishan Compressor was founded in nineteen fifty-six as the Quzhou City Agricultural Machinery Repair Factory. This initial operation served local farms, providing maintenance and basic manufacturing services. This foundation in industrial machinery set the stage for the company's future development and Cao's eventual leadership.

A pivotal moment in Cao's career and the company's trajectory occurred in two thousand one when he led a management buyout, transitioning the company from state control to private ownership. This strategic move allowed for greater autonomy and the implementation of new business strategies. Under his leadership, the company made a significant technological leap in two thousand nine with the development of a proprietary high-efficiency screw air compressor. This breakthrough cemented Kaishan's position in the manufacturing sector and underscored Cao's focus on innovation. The company's growth and technological advancements culminated in its initial public offering on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in two thousand eleven. This IPO provided resources for further expansion and elevated Kaishan's profile on a global scale.

Cao Kejian is the chairman of Zhejiang Kaishan Compressor, which he transformed from its origins as a state-owned repair factory into a leading manufacturer. The company specializes in air compressors and rock drilling equipment, essential components for various industrial applications. By two thousand twenty-five, the group led China's air compressor market and advanced green energy projects worldwide. Kaishan's client base includes major international corporations, reflecting its global reach and the quality of its products. Cao's significant ownership stake in this publicly traded company is the direct source of his substantial wealth. His leadership has consistently emphasized innovation and quality, evident in the development of advanced machinery and strategic partnerships, including expansion into geothermal energy projects, further diversifying the company's industrial footprint.

Career Milestones

1956

Quzhou City Agricultural Machinery Repair Factory

The company was founded in 1956 as a repair factory, which served local farms with maintenance and basic manufacturing.

2001

Privatization

Cao Kejian led a management buyout, shifting the company from state control to private ownership.

2009

Screw Compressor Breakthrough

The company developed a proprietary high-efficiency screw air compressor.

2011

IPO

Zhejiang Kaishan Compressor went public on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Focus on Innovation

Cao has emphasized the importance of continuous research and development to stay ahead in the competitive market and provide the most innovative product.

Empowering Teams

He encourages team members to take ownership and contribute ideas to drive the organization forward.

Billionaires Connected to Cao Kejian

Peers in Manufacturing

All Manufacturing billionaires

Richest in China

All billionaires from China

Adjacent Global Ranks

Full global ranking

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cao Kejian's net worth in 2026?
As of 2026, Cao Kejian's estimated net worth is $1.111 billion, ranking #3221 among the world's billionaires. The estimate is based on publicly available shareholding data and market prices, updated daily.
How did Cao Kejian make their money?
Cao Kejian's wealth primarily comes from Air compressors, most notably through Air compressors.
Where is Cao Kejian from?
Cao Kejian is from China.
How old is Cao Kejian?
Cao Kejian is 63 years old.

Sources & References

  1. Cao Kejian — Forbes profile Forbes