As nations worldwide tightened borders and policies in 2024, China emerged as a counter-trend champion of global connectivity, according to the World Openness Report 2025 released Wednesday. The annual study reveals China's openness index rose to 0.7545 last year – a notable contrast to the global average decline that continues a 16-year slowdown trend.
Presented at Shanghai's 8th Hongqiao International Economic Forum, the report analyzed 129 economies through four key lenses: cross-border trade flows, foreign direct investment patterns, cultural exchanges, and international travel metrics. Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences' Institute of World Economics and Politics collaborated with the Hongqiao Forum's research team on the comprehensive analysis.
"This data underscores China's commitment to multilateral engagement despite complex geopolitical headwinds," a forum representative told KhabarAsia. The findings come as many developed economies implement stricter investment screening mechanisms and trade barriers.
Notably, China's improved ranking reflects expanded digital trade partnerships with ASEAN nations and increased cultural exchange programs with African and Middle Eastern countries. The report highlights Shanghai's role as a financial gateway, processing 42% of the Chinese mainland's cross-border RMB settlements in Q3 2024.
For global investors, the findings suggest shifting opportunities in green technology collaboration and infrastructure development. Academics will likely scrutinize the methodology, which now factors in intellectual property sharing and renewable energy partnerships.
