China is rolling out a comprehensive suite of policies aimed at attracting foreign investment, reaffirming its position as a top destination for global businesses. During the recent Two Sessions, the country introduced measures at both national and local levels to enhance the foreign investment environment.
The national initiative, titled “Opinions on Further Optimizing the Foreign Investment Environment,” includes 24 policy measures designed to streamline processes and provide incentives for foreign investors. Complementing this, major cities like Shanghai have introduced targeted policies offering tax incentives, financial support, and streamlined administrative services for sectors such as integrated circuits, biomedicine, artificial intelligence, and new energy vehicles.
Local governments are also taking significant steps. For instance, Fujian Province launched 25 measures in February to foster collaboration between foreign and Chinese enterprises, particularly in the biomedicine field. Similarly, Zhejiang and Guangdong provinces have implemented policies focused on enhancing regional competitiveness through favorable tax regimes, expedited administrative procedures, and flexible immigration policies.
Beyond policy adjustments, the Chinese government is actively engaging with foreign investors to address their needs and concerns. The Ministry of Commerce organizes monthly roundtable meetings with foreign-invested enterprises to discuss economic and trade exchanges, support key investment projects, and continuously improve the business environment.
These efforts are yielding positive results. Confidence among foreign investors in China's business landscape is growing. Notable investments include ExxonMobil's commitment of over 31 billion yuan to its ethylene project in Huizhou City, Guangdong Province, with plans to invest an additional 10 billion yuan this year. Meanwhile, Starbucks is on track to open 9,000 stores in China by 2025, solidifying the country as the company's largest market globally.
A recent survey by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade revealed that over 90 percent of foreign-invested enterprises expressed satisfaction with China's business environment, particularly in areas like cross-border trade and market access. These positive sentiments underscore China's dedication to creating a fair, transparent, and predictable environment for foreign investors.
Looking ahead, China is committed to building a new development paradigm that harmonizes domestic and international markets, emphasizing cooperation, openness, inclusiveness, and mutual benefit. By continuing to attract foreign investment and fostering economic collaboration, China aims to achieve its long-term development goals and contribute to global economic recovery and prosperity.
Reference(s):
China rolls out welcome mat for foreign investors though policies
cgtn.com
