Pro-consumption measures positive sign

Editor's Note: This year marks a critical milestone as China concludes its 14th Five-Year Plan. To help in assessing the success of the process, we have asked multinational executives to share with our readers their insights about their business achievements in the past few years and further expectations in the years to come.

Q1 What's your view on the just-concluded two sessions? Do you expect any specific policy measures for further deepening reforms and expanding high-standard opening-up? What more should China do to create a more enabling business environment for foreign investors?

LYU: As a three-decade-old partner in China's water modernization drive, Xylem is committed to supporting China's sustainable water usage and development plans and believes the following policy measures could further enhance market confidence and foreign investment while advancing shared sustainability goals. There is no doubt that the Chinese market has a crucial position in our global landscape. In recent years, our locally developed, innovative water technology solutions are increasingly being applied in global markets. Looking ahead, we are optimistic about China's economic outlook and Xylem's continued growth here. We see strong potential driven by China's economic resilience, focus on technological innovation and commitment to sustainable development. Fueled by government support for new technologies and ongoing urban and industrial transformation, China is already a hotbed of innovation and growth in the water sector.

BOZEC: In recent years, China has exemplified an enterprising spirit through its progressive initiatives and reform and opening-up efforts, achieving remarkable milestones in advancing high-quality development. The allure and creative dynamism of the Chinese economy continue to expand, with steadily increasing openness and a continually optimized business environment. Reinforcing this positive momentum, the recently announced 2025 Action Plan for Stabilizing Foreign Investment underscores the government's robust commitment to supporting and safeguarding foreign investments. The government will actively support entrepreneurs and investors from all countries in innovating and setting up businesses in China, encouraging foreign companies to establish research and development centers, and collaborate with domestic enterprises.

IWASAKI: We look forward to seeing specific policy measures that further deepen reforms and expand high-standard opening-up, especially in the fields of digital economy, green economy and high-tech industries. We look forward to more policy optimizations regarding foreign investment access, intellectual property protections and market transparency. Moreover, the Chinese government has vigorously introduced opening-up policies, for which Epson, as a foreign enterprise, is deeply grateful. Moving forward, we hope to seize business opportunities. Epson China has always adhered to the strategy of "technology plus localization" to achieve success in the Chinese market. As a manufacturer, to establish a foothold in the Chinese market, Epson must possess fundamental and superior technology. Leveraging the strength of Chinese partners to provide products and services that meet the needs of the Chinese market has become the foundation of our China strategy.

POON: As a long-established German company in China, Infineon always looks forward to the outcomes of the two sessions. We hope to see policies that facilitate the operations of foreign companies in China. We also hope for greater harmonization between Chinese and international standards to enable economies of scale. Infineon regards China as a strategic market with growth potential in decarbonization and digitalization, especially in high-value sectors such as electro-mobility, AI and renewables. This year marks our 30th year in the Chinese mainland, and we remain committed to growth through our "In China, For China" localization strategy, dedicated to creating a customer-centric innovation ecosystem and driving sustainable development.