China woos global CEOs ahead of 2026 Development Forum talks
Chinese officials have met with global business leaders ahead of the China Development Forum 2026. The discussions focused on trade ties, investment opportunities, and China's economic direction for the coming years. Multinational companies reaffirmed their confidence in the country's growth prospects.
High-ranking Chinese officials held separate meetings with executives from major international firms. Commerce Minister Wang Wentao spoke with Apple CEO Tim Cook about strengthening trade relations and Apple's ongoing operations in China. He also met with Eli Lilly and Company CEO David A. Ricks to discuss economic cooperation between China and the US.
Meanwhile, Vice Commerce Minister Ling Ji met with Al-Futtaim Group CEO Omar Al Futtaim to explore deeper business collaboration. He Lifeng, a senior member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, engaged with other multinational executives during the pre-forum discussions.
The talks took place as China prepares its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–30), which will prioritise high-level opening-up alongside technological self-reliance and industrial development. Officials emphasised steady economic progress, highlighting improvements in innovation and quality. However, no specific new policies for foreign investors were announced during these meetings.
Multinational companies have signalled their intention to expand investments in China. The meetings ahead of the China Development Forum 2026 reinforced ongoing business ties and economic cooperation. China's focus remains on balancing openness with domestic industrial growth in the years ahead.
