At the sidelines of the Hongqiao International Economic Forum on November 13, 2025, business leaders, economists and traders gathered for Dialogue to explore China’s evolving approach to high-standard opening up. Against a backdrop of domestic transformation and a shifting global landscape, the conversation centered on how the next Five-Year Plan will deepen market access and strengthen the economic foundation of the Chinese mainland.
Charting the Road Ahead
As China prepares to unveil its new Five-Year Plan later this year, officials have signaled a focus on:
- Expanding free trade zones to boost cross-border investment
- Streamlining negative lists to clarify market access rules
- Investing in digital infrastructure and data-driven trade
- Enhancing intellectual property protection and regulatory transparency
- Promoting green finance and sustainable development
Expert Perspectives
David Mahon, executive chairman of Mahon China Investment, emphasized the value of a clear and consistent policy framework, noting that transparency in regulations helps foreign businesses plan for the long term.
Yan Liang, Kremer chair professor of economics at Willamette University, highlighted recent data showing a steady uptick in foreign investment in key sectors, underscoring the impact of targeted reforms this year.
Daryl Guppy, CEO of Guppytraders.com, pointed to the rise of digital trade as a key opportunity, calling for interoperable standards and smooth cross-border data flows to attract tech startups and innovators.
Making Foreign Businesses Feel at Home
Panelists agreed that concrete steps—such as faster licensing procedures, consistent enforcement of fair competition rules and enhanced support services—will help overseas investors navigate the business environment. Building on lessons from established free trade zones, China can create a more welcoming ecosystem where foreign and domestic companies thrive together.
As the Chinese mainland charts its next chapter of high-standard opening up, these insights offer a roadmap for global businesses seeking to engage with one of the world’s largest markets. With the new Five-Year Plan on the horizon, reform-minded policies and a collaborative spirit could set the stage for sustained growth and deeper international partnerships.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
