The China Development Forum (CDF) 2025 is underway, drawing an impressive roster of international business leaders and experts. With more than 80 multinational CEOs in attendance, including representatives from Apple, Corning Inc., and Mercedes-Benz, it’s clear that global firms are bullish on China’s future.
This year’s forum, the first major international event following China’s two sessions, highlights the world’s second-largest economy as a key player in shaping the future of global business. As China sets its growth target for 2025 at around 5%, companies worldwide are reaffirming their commitment to the market.
In this post, I’ll take you through the key takeaways from the CDF, the growing investment in China, and why foreign CEOs are more confident than ever in the Chinese market.
The China Development Forum: A Snapshot of Global Confidence
The China Development Forum (CDF) is not just a routine economic gathering; it’s a clear reflection of China’s commitment to openness, innovation, and growth. Hosted annually by the Development Research Center of China’s State Council, the forum attracts high-profile multinational leaders who are eager to discuss opportunities in China.
Key Figures at CDF 2025:
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Wendell P. Weeks, CEO of Corning Inc., emphasized the company’s ongoing investment in China, underscoring its long-term confidence in the market.
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Michael Nelson, CEO of Amway, revealed plans to invest $2.1 billion in China over the next five years, despite global trade uncertainties.
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Notable figures such as Apple’s Tim Cook, BMW, Ikea, and KPMG were also present, further solidifying China’s role as a global economic powerhouse.
These attendees are not just making political statements; they are making real investment decisions in a market that continues to offer tremendous opportunities.
Premier Li Qiang’s Vision: China’s Path to Stable Growth
In his keynote address, Chinese Premier Li Qiang made it clear that China’s economic policies are firmly centred on further global integration. His remarks focused on China’s unwavering commitment to expanding market access, addressing business concerns, and facilitating deeper integration with foreign enterprises. Here are some highlights from his speech:
Key Points from Premier Li’s Speech:
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Opening Up and Cooperation: China will continue to provide an open environment for foreign businesses to thrive.
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Technological Innovation: China’s continued investments in technology and innovation are central to its economic future.
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Global Supply Chains: China’s role in global trade remains critical, with a focus on maintaining smooth and stable global supply chains.
Premier Li’s speech was seen as a positive signal for international investors, providing reassurance about China’s stable and dynamic economic trajectory.
Foreign CEOs Express Confidence in China’s Future
The fact that foreign firms continue to increase their investments in China speaks volumes about the country’s enduring attractiveness as a business hub. Despite global uncertainty, China remains a magnet for multinational corporations across various sectors.
Foreign Companies Bet on China’s Growth
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Corning Inc.: Corning CEO Wendell Weeks highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to China, emphasising that investment opportunities in China are abundant across sectors like displays and automotive technologies.
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Amway: CEO Michael Nelson’s statement about a $2.1 billion investment in China for the next five years signals his company’s belief in China’s sustainable economic growth and a market poised for growth in the health and wellness sectors.
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Ikea: Jon Abrahamsson Ring, CEO of Ikea, applauded China’s efforts to continue expanding its market openness, reinforcing that the company’s 16-year investment in China has been highly successful.
It’s clear that multinational giants see China as a land of opportunity, with its vast consumer market, technological advancements, and business-friendly policies.
China’s Growth Target for 2025: A Stable Foundation for Investment
China’s 5% GDP growth target for 2025 has generated optimism, not just within the country but globally. The target reflects both China’s understanding of its economic landscape and its confidence in achieving stable, high-quality growth.
Why the 5% Target Matters:
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Realistic yet Optimistic: The 5% target is based on a pragmatic understanding of China’s economic realities. Despite external challenges, China’s internal policies are geared towards maintaining steady growth.
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Sustaining Foreign Investment: For international businesses, a stable growth forecast signals a predictable business environment, making China an attractive destination for investment.
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Diversification: With more emphasis on technology, green energy, and consumer-driven growth, China’s economy is shifting towards more sustainable and innovative sectors.
Foreign CEOs believe that China’s economic resilience, backed by government policy, will continue to offer business opportunities, especially in areas of high-tech manufacturing, consumer products, and services.
Rising Multinational Participation: A New Era of Global Cooperation
This year’s CDF saw a notable increase in the participation of foreign companies, especially from Global South countries like India, Brazil, and Thailand. This shift underscores China’s growing importance as a global economic leader.
Countries Showing Increased Interest:
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India: Indian companies have expressed increased interest in China’s technology sector and its consumer goods market.
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Brazil: As an emerging economy, Brazil is looking to strengthen ties with China, particularly in the agriculture and energy sectors.
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Thailand and Malaysia: These Southeast Asian nations are leveraging China’s Belt and Road Initiative to expand trade and investment flows.
This increased participation reflects a broadening recognition that China’s market is no longer just a manufacturing hub but a strategic partner for long-term growth.
China’s Commitment to Foreign Investment: What’s Next?
China’s commitment to foreign investment is clear, with the government rolling out measures to improve the business environment for international companies. Recent actions include:
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Action Plan to Stabilize Foreign Investment: In January, China introduced a comprehensive action plan aimed at boosting foreign investment, offering incentives, and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
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Roundtable Meetings: More than 500 issues faced by foreign-funded enterprises have been addressed through roundtable discussions, ensuring smoother operations for global businesses.
What This Means for Global Companies:
Foreign companies looking to expand or enter the Chinese market can be confident that the government’s proactive stance on improving the business environment will continue. China’s open-door policy remains intact, with an emphasis on collaboration and innovation.
Conclusion: China’s Economic Potential Remains Unmatched
As global firms continue to invest in China, the country’s economic potential shines brightly. With a 5% GDP growth target for 2025, a focus on technological innovation, and a steadfast commitment to opening up, China remains one of the world’s most attractive investment destinations.
The China Development Forum (CDF) 2025 has once again demonstrated that China is not just weathering the storm of global uncertainty but is actively positioning itself for sustained growth. For international businesses, this is the time to engage, invest, and collaborate with China for a prosperous future.
Relevant Links for Further Reading:
Photo credit: Global Times
