Nation offering great opportunities for global biz

The facility, the German automaker's first strategic-level research hub outside its home country, spans more than 10,000 square meters and integrates development, procurement, and quality control under one roof.

"China is leading the way in future mobility, combining electrification, digitalization, and new luxury concepts," said Oliver Blume, chairman of the executive board of Porsche AG.

"Solving the challenges of this transformation isn't possible from afar — it has to happen here. The China R&D is a strategic pillar that connects German engineering with China's digital future. This center will help us move faster, learn more, and strengthen Porsche R&D globally," Blume said.

The same day, pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca also announced an additional $136 million investment to expand its production and supply base in Qingdao, Shandong province, just months after unveiling a $2.5 billion plan to establish a global strategic R&D center in Beijing.

"We really see China as a strategic hub for both R&D and manufacturing," said Tony Pusic, senior vice-president of Supply Asia Pacific at AstraZeneca.

China saw the registration of 48,921 new foreign-invested firms in the first three quarters of this year, marking a year-on-year increase of 16.2 percent, according to the Ministry of Commerce. From 2021 to 2025, China attracted over $700 billion in cumulative utilized foreign investment, with 25,000 more new foreign-funded enterprises than in the previous five-year period.

The CIIE is well known for the billions of dollars in deals and investment signed on its floor. But beyond the economic handshakes, global companies arrived with tangible climate solutions.

Carolyn Mortland, executive officer for sustainability of New Zealand-based kiwifruit marketer Zespri, said that the company used the inaugural biofuel-chartered vessel during the 2025/26 season, using fuel derived from used cooking oil, reducing carbon emissions by 18 percent.

Zespri's practices and explorations in carbon reduction demonstrate that agricultural enterprises can not only adapt to climate change, but also proactively lead transformation, achieving a win-win outcome of environmental benefits and commercial value, Mortland added.

"China holds distinct strengths in new energy and logistics. We are keen to strengthen our collaboration in green transportation for the future," Mortland said.