As global economic uncertainties persist, China's commitment to high-standard opening up took center stage at the 2025 Hongqiao International Economic Forum. Experts and business leaders convened to analyze how the nation's new Five-Year Plan will reshape its economic strategy amid domestic reforms and shifting international dynamics.
Blueprints for Global Integration
David Mahon, executive chairman of Mahon China Investment, emphasized the plan's focus on institutional openness: "Streamlined market access and enhanced intellectual property protections this year demonstrate China's resolve to create a level playing field for overseas enterprises."
Willamette University's Yan Liang highlighted emerging opportunities: "The digital economy and green energy sectors are becoming key drivers of cross-border collaboration, with new incentives for technology transfer expected through 2026."
From Policy to Practice
Daryl Guppy of Guppytraders.com noted tangible progress: "Recent regulatory easing in financial services and data governance shows Beijing's pragmatic approach to addressing foreign businesses' operational challenges." Panelists identified three priority areas for 2025-2030:
Standardizing cross-border digital trade protocols
Expanding pilot free trade zones
Enhancing dispute resolution mechanisms for international investors
