Major Chinese Global Forums Lose Appeal Amid Fading Access
International attendees report that major Chinese forums are less robust with fewer chances to meet top leaders. Debate on global issues has also diminished.
Two of the most prominent international diplomatic and economic gatherings in China are reportedly losing their global appeal as participants note a decline in robust debate and reduced access to top leadership. The Boao Forum for Asia, often compared to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and the China Development Forum (CDF) are increasingly viewed as platforms for domestic messaging rather than open international dialogue. Instead of President Xi Jinping or Premier Li Qiang, the keynote address at the Boao Forum's 25th anniversary was delivered by Zhao Leji, the nation's third-highest-ranking leader and top lawmaker. Critics have pointed to a shift in the nature of these assemblies. Stephen Roach, the former chairman of Morgan Stanley Asia and an American economist, expressed concerns regarding the changing atmosphere of the CDF. > "The China Development Forum has lost its soul," Roach stated. Roach, who has attended the event for 25 years, noted that his views on stimulating consumer demand were deemed too controversial for the 2024 program and that he was not invited to subsequent gatherings. The content of the speeches has also drawn scrutiny for avoiding sensitive geopolitical issues. Zhao Leji’s address focused on regional peace and "tranquillity" while avoiding direct mentions of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia or the ongoing conflicts involving Iran. This follows a trend where the forums, once used to signal China's integration into the global trade system, are now utilized to promote the Global Security Initiative and regional development under Beijing's terms. Economic tensions further complicate the backdrop of these meetings. While Beijing promotes its economy as a stable global anchor, it faces international criticism over trade surpluses and subsidies. Strategic partners such as Vietnam and Laos have faced supply challenges due to export curbs on fuel and fertilizers, even as China seeks to maintain its influence in the region. Attendance at the Boao meeting included Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong alongside various regional diplomats and academics. However, the event lacked the high-profile mix of global CEOs and celebrities that characterized previous years or the Davos summit. Business leaders from the United States and other nations have also noted a decrease in direct engagement with the highest levels of the Chinese government. While Xi Jinping met with a select group of executives in 2024, he is not expected to meet with company representatives this year. Instead, interactions have been delegated to Vice Premier He Lifeng and Zhao Leji. One attendee noted that the primary value of these meetings was often the opportunity to be seen by regulators and provincial governments. > "The value of attending the leaders meeting is that a list of participants will be sent to regulators and provincial governments where the companies are seeking to expand their business," the source said.
