At the China Development Forum 2025, a significant gathering of global political and business leaders, optimism about the Chinese economy was palpable. Held in Beijing and hosted by the Development Research Center of the State Council, the forum attracted around 720 participants from around the world, highlighting China’s continued appeal despite global economic uncertainties.
American companies were prominently represented, with 27 executives from major corporations like Apple, Pfizer, and FedEx in attendance. This strong presence underscores the importance of the Chinese market to U.S. businesses, even amid trade tensions between the two countries.
European firms also marked a strong turnout, with 28 corporations such as BMW, HSBC, Bosch, and Nestle participating. Notably, there was a record number of first-time attendees this year, including 17 companies like IKEA and Tapestry Group, making up 20% of all participants—the highest proportion in the event’s history.
The forum showcased a diverse range of industries, from financial services and healthcare to energy and mining. Global leaders in consumer goods, including Danone, Nestle, Estee Lauder, and Tapestry Group, were also present, reflecting broad international confidence in China’s economic prospects.
During the opening ceremony, Chinese Premier Li Qiang pledged to advance openness and cooperation. “China will continue to welcome enterprises from around the world with open arms,” he said. “We will further expand market access, actively address the concerns of businesses, and facilitate the deeper integration of foreign-funded enterprises into the Chinese market.”
Li emphasized the need for global collaboration in the face of economic fragmentation and uncertainty. “Countries need to open their markets and share resources to address challenges and pursue common prosperity,” he added.
Many attendees echoed Li’s sentiments. CEOs from multinational companies highlighted China’s crucial role in driving global economic growth. They viewed the forum as an opportunity to deepen their understanding of China and expressed plans to increase research and development investments in the country.
“Twenty-five percent of what we sell globally is manufactured in China,” said Jon Abrahamsson Ring, CEO of Inter IKEA Group. “We are very happy we have a long-term relationship with over 300 suppliers and partners here. We’ve been in China for 60 years, and we plan to be here for another 60 years.”
The China Development Forum 2025, with the theme “Unleashing Development Momentum for Stable Growth of Global Economy,” will continue on March 23 and 24, serving as a crucial platform for international dialogue and cooperation.
