Foreign firms enthusiastic about opening-up progress

Q4 While China is expanding opening-up, some are concerned that geopolitical tensions, rising protectionism and global supply chain adjustments may weaken China's attractiveness to foreign companies. What's your take? How important will China be for your global business in the coming decade? What more opening-up measures can China take to offset the impact of the complex external environment?

SHIH: Rockwell Automation entered the Chinese (mainland) market in 1988, and we appreciate China's ongoing reform and commitment to high-standard opening-up. This supportive business environment has bolstered our confidence in our development within China, enabling us to better understand and address the unique needs of our local partners.

Driven by this understanding, Rockwell is committed to utilizing our advanced technologies, operational excellence, and cross-border ecosystems to support the high-quality development of China's manufacturing sector. As we move forward, we will continue to foster business exchanges and collaboration with local partners, leveraging our collective strengths to unlock new opportunities in the global marketplace together.

ZAMAN: We remain optimistic about the long-term potential of the Chinese economy. China's economic landscape is dynamic and resilient, characterized by ongoing reforms, technological advancements, and a strong commitment to sustainable development. The country's robust infrastructure, thriving innovation ecosystem and large consumer base continue to underpin its economic vitality.

Despite market challenges, we are confident in China's economic resilience and have demonstrated that through our investments here to improve our operations, enhance our customer relationships, and foster local partnerships.

HOMMA: In a survey on the economic outlook of Japanese companies in China, conducted by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China in May, where I serve as chairman, it was found that 56 percent of these companies plan to maintain or increase their investment in the Chinese market this year. Beyond expanding their manufacturing capabilities, they also aim to invest more in talent development and research and development. Many Japanese companies have found their place in the market and will continue to make significant contributions.

Panasonic's business in China now accounts for about 23 percent of our global business scale. We have 64 corporate entities and around 50,000 employees in China, with nearly 10,000 of them working in R&D. This highlights the crucial importance of our presence in China.

AYLMER: Despite the complex international uncertainties currently, China is inevitably an important part of the global supply chain. Though there are ups and downs, the resilience of China's economy is foreseeable. China will continue to be a great investment destination for foreign companies. MNCs should maintain strategic focus and seize opportunities at present. We remain confident about the Chinese market, and this is unchanged.

IHG is also a beneficiary of China's reform and opening-up. We are optimistic about the Chinese market's growth and have full confidence in its potential. Additionally, we are encouraged by the continued supportive government policies toward travel and tourism, infrastructure investment, and economic development.