The global supply chain is getting a serious boost! Experts at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 in Hainan Province highlighted how China is using openness and regional connectivity to create stability amid a turbulent global market. With rising protectionism and tariff challenges, it’s clear that stronger partnerships, particularly among countries in the Global South, are more vital than ever.
Akylbek Zhaparov, former chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, reminded everyone that "in a world filled with uncertainty, maintaining stable supply chains is crucial." Projects like the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway — a flagship Belt and Road Initiative endeavor — are paving the way for landlocked Central Asian nations to access seaports by linking up with China’s vast railway network. This means less dependency on traditional routes and more resilience against disruptions!
Yasiru Bandara Ranaraja, founding director of Belt & Road Initiative Sri Lanka, took a nostalgic trip back to 2017, when leaders from dozens of countries gathered at the first Belt and Road Forum in Beijing, setting the stage for a cohesive network of trade routes. Fast forward to today, and data shows that Asia remains at the heart of global value chains — in 2023, it contributed an impressive 41.17% to global trade in intermediate goods.
China’s commitment to opening up is visible in its sweeping reforms: expanding sectors such as telecommunications and healthcare, easing foreign investment restrictions, and sealing 23 free trade agreements with 30 countries or regions as of January 2025. Meanwhile, mega-trade pacts like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership are anchoring global free trade, ensuring that even emerging and fragile economies can count on a reliable partner.
Business leaders are buzzing with optimism too. Ueda Toshihiro of a Japanese material manufacturer and Marc Horn from Merck China both emphasized that investing and growing in China is a natural move in today’s intertwined world. And with voices like Denis Depoux urging a shift from a "Made in China" label to a "Designed in China" approach, the message is clear: innovation, global collaboration, and a dash of creativity are the keys to future success. 🚀🌎
This dynamic evolution is not just a win for trade—it’s a roadmap for building resilient, interconnected economies that keep the world moving forward. Stay tuned for more updates as China continues to shape the future of global supply chains!
Reference(s):
China boosts global supply chain via openness, regional connectivity
cgtn.com
