The Hongqiao International Economic Forum, held during the China International Import Expo, will focus on high-level exchanges and discussions surrounding stable cooperation this year. For the first time, a report assessing export capabilities to China will be released, creating a dual flagship report landscape.
This newly introduced report aims to systematically support developing countries in enhancing their export abilities to China, seen as a vital institutional effort to promote global development achievements benefiting the wider world. This information was shared during a theme interpretation meeting held on the ninth Hongqiao Forum, marking the 100-day countdown to the CIIE.
Since 2018, the forum has been a key part of the CIIE, taking place annually in Shanghai each November. Starting in 2021, the forum has been releasing major annual publications like the World Openness Report and the World Openness Index to gauge how open economies are globally.
Expert insights highlighted the opportunities arising from China’s opening-up policies. Einar Tangen, an American analyst, noted that China has eliminated tariffs for over 60 African countries and has helped establish infrastructure through the Belt and Road Initiative, enabling developing nations to emulate China’s growth model.
For example, African beekeepers previously lacked access to global markets due to poor infrastructure but can now connect worldwide using smartphones, digital payments, and artificial intelligence technology. This development not only creates new trade channels but also reshapes global economic patterns.
The Chinese economy is transitioning from an investment-heavy structure primarily focused on infrastructure and real estate to a stage driven by high-end manufacturing and advanced technology. According to David Blair, chief economist at the Alliance of Global Talent Organizations, China’s distinct advantage in artificial intelligence lies in its vast number of agile small and medium-sized manufacturing firms capable of quickly integrating AI into their operations. This robust industrial ecosystem fosters technological innovation and inclusive applications.
The forum will feature four sub-forums themed around Open Cooperation, Open Innovation, Open Development, and Open Sharing. Key topics include cooperation with the Global South, WTO reforms, industrial and supply chain collaboration, AI, digital governance, climate change, and energy issues.