As the China Development Forum 2026 kicked off in Beijing this week, global CEOs like Apple's Tim Cook spotlighted China's dual role as an economic anchor and innovation powerhouse. With over 100 multinational leaders attending, the message was clear: China remains central to global growth strategies.
🍎 Cook's Tech Optimism
Apple's CEO praised China's developer ecosystem as a 'powerful engine' creating health tech breakthroughs and AI-driven learning tools. 'What's happening here reminds me of Silicon Valley in the 90s – but with 5G and robots,' he told attendees.
🏭 Smart Factories, Smarter Growth
Cook highlighted how Chinese manufacturers have transformed through automation: 'Factories that used 500 workers now run with 50 tech-savvy engineers.' Roland Berger's Denis Depoux added that 'China isn't just making gadgets – it's redesigning how global supply chains work.'
🌱 Green Growth Blueprint
With Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasizing 'certainty through innovation,' companies like KONE are betting big on China's green tech push. 'When Beijing says they'll build 100 carbon-neutral cities by 2035, we listen,' said CEO Philippe Delorme.
As night fell over Beijing's LED-lit skyline, one message glowed brightest: In a world of economic turbulence, global biz sees China as both compass and engine. 🔋🚀
