Under the theme "Hongqiao, Bridging the World: Chinese Enterprises Venturing Abroad Amid Global Shifts", the sub-forum on Building Hongqiao International Opening-up Hub & HUB Conference 2025 opened on Nov 6 in Shanghai. Here are the insights shared by the guests at the forum.
Zhu Min, former deputy managing director of the IMF:
"If overseas enterprises are various ships setting sail for the world stage, then Hongqiao is the best dock and base providing comprehensive services. This is a particularly important model for China's economic future, and it's where Hongqiao has enormous potential."
Jack Perry, chairman of the 48 Group and chief executive of London Export Corporation:
"I think you don't see anything like this in the West, a hub that is trying to help Chinese companies expand abroad. They're providing the foundation for Chinese companies in what seems like the most inclusive way possible."
Eric Li, chairman of Chengwei Capital:
"China's technological breakthroughs have driven industrial upgrades worldwide, not only enhancing manufacturing efficiency but also genuinely improving the quality of life for billions of people. This is the essence of 're-globalization'."
Richard Baldwin, professor of International Economics at IMD:
"Digitalization is opening up international trade in services. So I think that services will dominate in the future."
Qin Shuo, humanities and finance observer:
"While Chinese enterprises possess strong global competitiveness, they should also maintain a sense of humility. As we go global, we bring not just low prices but a new label of Chinese innovation in this new era."
Jiang Peijun, founder of Chenxianggui Group:
"The Hongqiao International Central Business District is the bridgehead for Chinese enterprises going global, and this is not an empty title. After being in Hongqiao for nearly three years, its location near the center of Shanghai and openness to the world has been a huge benefit for us."
Li Xiang, co-founder of Black Lake Technologies:
"In recent years, China's consumer demand has driven the manufacturing side to more flexibly and swiftly produce what consumers truly need. Now, the demand for flexible manufacturing is starting to spread overseas. What we are taking abroad is not just Black Lake's industrial software and intelligence but also a tangible embodiment of China's flexible manufacturing practices."
Jacky Zou, chairman of KPMG China:
"The focus of going global has shifted from aggressive expansion to rational deep cultivation. Leaders of overseas enterprises tend to prefer having a team that can identify risks for them and find certainty amidst uncertainty."
Siren Xia, a partner at Mercer:
"Mercer helps companies go global by making talent their most reliable asset. We also look forward to leveraging the momentum of the Hongqiao International Central Business District to jointly witness more Chinese enterprises making their mark on the world stage."
