The 2025 Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) Annual Conference opened on Thursday, transforming Beijing into a global epicenter of innovation. With over 1,000 participants from 100+ countries, the five-day event highlights China’s drive to advance “New Quality Productive Forces” through international science and technology cooperation.
A Global Stage for Cutting-Edge Innovation
This year’s forum, themed “New Quality Productive Forces and Global Science and Technology Cooperation”, features 128 activities across five pillars:
- Forums: 60 sessions, including 20 new initiatives like the Open Science International Forum and Ocean Science and Development Forum.
- Tech Trade: Showcasing breakthroughs in AI, robotics, green energy, and life sciences.
- Achievements: Unveiling China’s top 10 scientific advances of 2024.
- Competitions: Fostering global talent in tech innovation.
- Supporting Events: Networking and partnership opportunities.
Zhang, a senior Chinese official, emphasized China’s commitment to integrating sci-tech with industrial innovation, accelerating new industrialization, and nurturing “new quality productive forces” to fuel sustainable growth.
Global Collaboration Takes Center Stage
The forum’s international appeal was underscored by Suliman Almazroua, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s National Industrial Development and Logistics Program:
“This platform unites global researchers and entrepreneurs. Innovation thrives through collaboration—here, we find partners to tackle tomorrow’s challenges.”
With 30+ international organizations co-hosting 18 events, the ZGC Forum bridges borders. Delegates from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas are exploring partnerships in fields like AI-driven healthcare, smart manufacturing, and sustainable infrastructure.
AI, Robotics, and Beyond: Highlights from the Forum
1. Humanoid Robots in Action
A major draw this year is the deployment of nearly 100 robots from 15 companies, performing tasks from serving drinks to crafting calligraphy. These innovations highlight China’s leadership in AI and automation.
2. Cutting-Edge Tech for Industrial Upgrades
Ma Juan, CEO of Steinbeis Sustainable Technology, shared:
“Last year, we identified 12 global frontier technologies to collaborate on with Beijing firms, driving local industrial transformation.”
Key focus areas include:
- AI & Big Data: Revolutionizing industries from healthcare to logistics.
- Green Development: Low-carbon tech and renewable energy solutions.
- Life Sciences: Breakthroughs in gene editing and precision medicine.
China’s Top 10 Scientific Advances of 2024
At the opening ceremony, the National Natural Science Foundation of China revealed groundbreaking achievements across disciplines:
- Quantum Computing: Enhanced error-correction protocols.
- Materials Science: Ultra-strong, lightweight alloys for aerospace.
- Medical Research: Advanced CRISPR applications for genetic disorders.
- Astronomy: New insights into dark matter distribution.
These advances underscore China’s growing role in shaping global scientific frontiers.
From Beijing to the World: A Legacy of Innovation
Since its 2007 inception, the ZGC Forum has evolved into a national-level platform driving open innovation. Jin Wei, Beijing’s Vice-Mayor, stated:
“Our goal is to make this forum a showcase for transformative technologies and global collaboration.”
Why the ZGC Forum Matters
- Market Access: Connect with China’s $1.2 trillion tech industry.
- Trend Forecasting: Gain insights into AI, robotics, and sustainability.
- Partnership Opportunities: Collaborate with global leaders and startups.
