Beijing CBD ranking has risen to sixth globally in the 2025 Global Business Districts Attractiveness Report, reflecting the district’s growing international competitiveness. Moreover, the report, released Friday by EY with support from the Global Business Districts Innovation Club, evaluates leading urban business hubs worldwide.
The 2025 edition marks the report’s third release since 2017. It benchmarks 30 major business districts across 19 countries using eight categories, including talent, market proximity, influence, macro conditions, real estate, urban amenities, innovation, and sustainability. Consequently, the report publishes both category-specific and overall results.
Beijing CBD, located in Chaoyang District, moved up one place from 2020. It now ranks just behind New York’s Midtown and Financial District, Tokyo’s Marunouchi, Paris’ La Défense, and London’s City. Meanwhile, other Chinese districts include Hong Kong Central at 13th, Shanghai Pudong-Lujiazui at 14th, and Guangzhou Tianhe CBD at 22nd.
The report highlighted Beijing CBD’s strengths in urban amenities and talent. In particular, it noted the district’s creation of a “Work-Life-Leisure” ecosystem with cultural institutions, retail, dining, and public spaces. As a result, analysts said such features attract both global businesses and skilled professionals.
According to the Beijing CBD Administration Committee, the climb in ranking reflects China’s growing competitiveness on the global stage. Officials added that innovation, sustainability, and high-quality urban amenities have been central to Beijing’s strategy.
Experts also noted that the methodology considers both qualitative and quantitative indicators. They emphasized that urban infrastructure, talent pools, and livability are increasingly critical in measuring business district appeal. Furthermore, they added that Beijing’s improved standing could attract more international investment and corporate headquarters.
Looking ahead, Beijing CBD plans to strengthen infrastructure and innovation capacity. Specifically, the district will enhance green spaces, transport efficiency, and technology ecosystems. These efforts aim to keep the district competitive in global rankings.
Overall, Beijing CBD ranking demonstrates its growing significance as a global business hub. Therefore, it showcases China’s ambition to build world-class urban centers that balance work, life, and innovation.
