The China Development Forum (CDF), an annual event for foreign businesses organized by the Chinese government, was conducted in a somewhat subdued atmosphere due to the ongoing Iran war and China-Japan tensions. Premier Li Qiang emphasized at the forum's opening ceremony that amidst rapid changes in international conditions, China aims to be a 'cornerstone of stability'. He advocated for high levels of foreign openness and more imports to address the trade imbalance, noting that protectionism is not a solution to global issues. Li's comments reflect concerns regarding China's significant trade surplus and its implications for international trade dynamics.

Criticism of rising protectionist barriers, particularly since the Trump administration, was also prominent in Li's remarks. He clarified that China's industrial competitiveness is not merely a product of subsidies or protections, countering claims stemming from Section 301 of the Trade Act enforced by the previous U.S. administration. This aimed at addressing China's global overcapacity and related practices indicates the ongoing trade frictions that exist between the two nations.

This year's forum attracted 88 global CEOs, including major figures like Samsung's Lee Jae-Yong and Apple's Tim Cook. However, due to the prevailing geopolitical factors, particularly the tensions between China and Japan after comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan, Japanese corporate representation was notably absent. Furthermore, the ongoing Iran war contributed to some foreign business leaders canceling their attendance, reflecting the complex interplay of global politics and corporate interests affecting the forum's participation.