The 2024 Global Industrial Cooperation Conference, themed “Open Cooperation to Link the World”, successfully convened in Hangzhou on November 19, 2024. Supported by the China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC) and hosted by the Global Alliance of SMEs, the event brought together nearly 1,000 leaders from global industries, governments, and organizations to enhance international collaboration and foster industrial consensus.
High-Profile Attendance and Global Engagement
Notable attendees included:
- Wan Gang, Chairman of the China Association for Science and Technology
- Christian Wulff, Former President of Germany and Honorary Chairman of GASME
- Yu Jianlong, Vice Chairman of CCPIT and CCOIC
- Ye Zhengbo, Vice Chairman of Zhejiang Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference
- Executives from Fortune Global 500 companies, major European and American enterprises, international organizations, and foreign embassies in China.
This diverse gathering highlighted the conference’s role in promoting international trade liberalization and industrial cooperation, with participants exploring opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Key Highlights and Discussions
Fostering Global Supply Chain Stability
In his opening speech, Chairman Wan Gang emphasized the importance of respecting international specialization and enhancing global supply chain stability to align with shared national interests. He advocated for deeper ties to navigate today’s complex global industrial landscape.
China and Germany: Pillars of Economic Recovery
Former German President Christian Wulff highlighted the pivotal roles of China and Germany in global economic recovery. He called for strengthened industrial cooperation to seize opportunities in innovation and sustainability.
Upcoming CCPIT Exhibition
Vice President Yu Jianlong announced an upcoming exhibition showcasing advanced manufacturing technologies such as smart vehicles and digital innovations, creating a platform for academic-industrial collaboration and sustainable growth.
Zhejiang: A Model for Open Development
Zhejiang’s Transformation
Vice Chairman Ye Zhengbo highlighted Zhejiang’s economic evolution over the past 20 years. With its modern “415X” advanced manufacturing cluster, Zhejiang has become a global hub for industrial cooperation. The region’s successful integration of traditional and modern industrial practices continues to attract multinational companies.
Improved Business Environment
According to the Zhejiang Foreign Business Environment Evaluation Report (2023), Zhejiang’s business environment has significantly improved, fostering higher investment returns for foreign enterprises.
Keynote Speeches and Roundtable Insights
Experts, including Long Yongtu, former Chief Negotiator for China’s WTO accession, and executives from Air Liquide, Siemens China, and Geely Holdings, shared strategies for strengthening global supply chains. Discussions emphasized challenges in globalization, including regulatory barriers and trade obstacles, while providing actionable solutions for improvement.
Signing Ceremony and Cooperation Projects
The conference facilitated the signing of several cooperation agreements, including:
- SCHMUHL (Germany): Advanced industrial partnerships
- Kuramoto (Japan): Collaborative ventures in manufacturing
- SAFEWELL GROUP HOLDINGS LTD (Hong Kong): Supply chain projects
- IDS (Australia): Infrastructure initiatives
These agreements underscore Zhejiang’s role as a global leader in fostering industrial innovation and collaboration.
Hangzhou Initiative: A Call for Re-Globalization
The conference culminated with the launch of the Hangzhou Initiative on Safeguarding and Promoting Re-Globalization. This call to action encourages governments, organizations, and businesses to transcend differences and embrace cooperation to rebuild global connectivity.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 Global Industrial Cooperation Conference showcased China’s leadership in advancing international industrial collaboration, reaffirming Hangzhou’s status as a hub for global innovation. As Zhejiang continues to attract multinational partnerships, the region sets a benchmark for promoting open development and sustainable growth in the global industrial landscape.
