Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized high-quality growth during his keynote at the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE) and Hongqiao International Economic Forum in Shanghai on Wednesday. He stressed that China will continue promoting high-standard opening-up and thereby contribute to global economic stability.
Li said China will expand institutional opening and launch pilot programs to accelerate the services sector. Furthermore, he added that a more modernized economy will bring stability and positive energy to the global market. This approach demonstrates China’s strong commitment to high-quality growth.
This year’s CIIE drew a record number of enterprises, showing the vitality of China’s super-large market. In addition, about 1,500 participants attended, including officials, business leaders, and academics from 155 countries and international organizations.
Foreign leaders, including Slovenia’s Marko Lotric, Nigeria’s Abbas Tajudeen, UNCTAD’s Rebeca Grynspan, and Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, addressed the event. They emphasized that the expo serves as a bridge connecting China to the world.
Business executives welcomed Premier Li’s message. For example, Poh-Yian Koh, President of FedEx China, said it strengthened confidence in long-term growth. Similarly, Ian Shih of Rockwell Automation said the remarks inspire innovation and opportunity. Moreover, L’Oréal CEO Nicolas Hieronimus praised the expo’s scale and openness, noting that it gives global companies confidence.
The CIIE and upcoming forums like the World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit help multinationals deepen engagement in China. In addition, the American Soybean Export Council used the event to renew relationships with Chinese buyers.
Economists highlighted that high-quality growth allows China to navigate global uncertainties. Specifically, Cao Heping of Peking University said opening-up and cooperation are essential amid rising protectionism. Furthermore, John Ross, former economic advisor in London, noted China’s leadership in electric vehicles, drones, and pharmaceuticals.
Executives from Boehringer Ingelheim and Goodyear Asia Pacific stressed that China offers stability, scale, and innovation. In addition, they said the 15th Five-Year Plan signals opportunities for advanced industries and encourages technological self-reliance.
Premier Li also called for international fairness, reform of economic governance, and optimization of trade rules. He warned that unilateral actions could disrupt the global economy. Moreover, experts believe China’s focus on high-quality growth and opening-up promotes multilateralism and long-term global prosperity.
Overall, high-quality growth remains the central theme guiding China’s domestic reforms. Consequently, it also shapes China’s global economic engagement in the coming years.
