Beijing CBD Forum Charts Course for Global Trade and Innovation

Beijing executive vice mayor Xia Linmao opened the dialogue by emphasizing the city’s commitment to high-quality development as the capital enters its 15th Five-Year Plan. He pledged to accelerate reform and streamline operations for international talent and foreign capital, a sentiment echoed by diplomats seeking to deepen industrial ties. Maldives ambassador Fazeel Najeeb lauded the move, noting that China’s expansion into fintech, logistics, and the digital economy provides a vital engine for global growth.

The forum also served as a launchpad for a new report on the Beijing CBD’s international footprint. The district currently hosts 125 regional headquarters of multinational corporations—the highest concentration in China. Data released by the Great Strategic Think Tank indicates that 85% of local firms are now prioritizing overseas expansion, with Southeast Asia emerging as the primary target for growth. For established players like Kreab Worldwide, the district’s primary draw remains its dense cluster of professional services, which allows multinational firms to navigate complex regulatory and operational landscapes with ease.