In a world facing geopolitical tension and economic hurdles, Maroun Kairouz, Managing Director of the World Economic Forum (WEF), highlights how the Chinese mainland's strategic shift from breakneck expansion to high-quality growth is giving the global economy a much-needed boost 🌐✨.
This strategic move emphasizes innovation, productivity and long-term stability—especially visible in the energy sector. In 2024, the Chinese mainland's investment in clean energy totaled $818 billion, marking a 20% rise from the previous year 🌱.
At the same time, the digital economy—powered by artificial intelligence (AI), advanced manufacturing and digital services—is supercharging efficiency across industries 🤖💡.
Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, these reforms are expected to create fresh opportunities in clean energy, technology and trade, helping address shared challenges in an uncertain global landscape.
Under the banner of new quality productive forces, the Chinese mainland's massive investment in advanced manufacturing and green technology shows how innovation can be scaled. Nearly 40% of the WEF's 'Global Lighthouse' factories are located on the mainland, leading the world in Fourth Industrial Revolution tech for productivity and sustainability 🔍.
With one of the most competitive manufacturing supply chains on the planet, developments on the mainland send ripples across global markets. Its strengths in green tech and advanced manufacturing play a vital role in tackling climate change and easing supply chain strains.
Amid rising trade protectionism, Kairouz calls for stronger multilateral mechanisms to balance healthy competition with lower trade barriers. Data from the World Trade Organization shows global trade is still growing, with economies working to keep goods moving 📈.
Faced with an AI- and automation-driven job market, the mainland's principle of integrating industrial, digital and climate strategies with skills development offers valuable lessons for other emerging markets.
At the Annual Meeting 2026, themed 'The Spirit of Dialogue', Kairouz argues that dialogue isn't optional anymore but essential. Building trust through open conversation is the foundation for global economic growth and resilience 🤝.
As nations navigate an uncertain world, the Chinese mainland's high-quality growth offers a roadmap: invest in innovation, work together and keep the conversation going.
Reference(s):
China's high-quality growth adds stability to global economy: expert
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