The China Development Forum 2025, held in Beijing from March 23 to 24, convened over 750 foreign representatives, global business leaders and policymakers to discuss strategies for fostering stable global economic growth. Under the theme “Unleashing Development Momentum for Stable Growth of Global Economy,” the forum served as a platform for dialogue amid rising global challenges.
In his keynote address, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized China’s unwavering dedication to opening up and international collaboration despite increasing global instability. He stated, “China will promote high-quality development and high-standard opening-up,” inviting companies worldwide to seize opportunities and invest in China.
“Enterprises are not only beneficiaries of globalization but should also become firm defenders and promoters of globalization,” he noted.
Premier Li highlighted the resilience and potential of the Chinese economy, asserting confidence in its capacity to maintain long-term stable growth and contribute positively to global economic recovery. He pledged to enhance market access for foreign enterprises and address their concerns, facilitating deeper integration into China’s economic landscape.
The forum attracted over 80 top multinational executives, including Tim Cook of Apple and Cristiano Amon of Qualcomm. Their attendance underscored the significance of the Chinese market to global businesses. Vice Premier He Lifeng reassured these leaders of China’s commitment to improving the business environment and welcoming increased investment from multinational companies.
Amid heightened trade tensions, particularly with the United States, Premier Li addressed the necessity of globalization over unilateralism and protectionism. He cautioned against “decoupling” and emphasized the importance of cooperation, stating that trade wars have no winners.
The forum also highlighted China’s strategic focus on technological innovation and self-reliance. Policymakers, including Han Wenxiu, underscored the need for supply-side reforms and advancements in technology to navigate current economic challenges.
In a related development, U.S. Senator Steve Daines met with Premier Li and American CEOs during the forum. Discussions centered on business conditions in China and the importance of dialogue over confrontation in U.S.-China relations. This meeting aimed to pave the way for an upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts amid trade disputes.
The China Development Forum 2025 reaffirmed China’s position as a pivotal player in the global economy, extending an open invitation to international businesses to participate in its economic evolution and emphasizing the collective pursuit of stable and inclusive global growth.
