Overview

H.E. Ambassador Xie Feng delivered remarks at the 2026 China–California Business Forum, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between China and California. He highlighted the historical significance of California as a partner and outlined four key suggestions for enhancing economic and trade relations.

Key details

  • California has been a leader in U.S.-China cooperation since the establishment of the China Provinces and US California Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment Cooperation in 2013.
  • The China–California Business Forum has been held seven times since its inception in 2016, becoming a key platform for local cooperation.
  • Ambassador Xie noted that the Chinese economy has shown strong growth in the first quarter of the year, with a focus on higher-quality development.
  • The 15th Five-Year Plan was adopted during China's annual “Two Sessions” in March, outlining strategic goals for modernization.
  • California's trade with China reached approximately 90 billion U.S. dollars last year, making it the leading U.S. state in trade with China.
  • Two out of every five containers shipped between China and the U.S. transit through Californian ports.
  • Ambassador Xie emphasized the need for cooperation in various sectors, including agriculture, logistics, and technology.
  • China aims to prioritize green growth and sustainable development, with plans to advance carbon reduction and pollution control.
  • California has been recognized as a leader in clean energy and was recently approved as a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
  • Ambassador Xie encouraged openness and global partnerships, highlighting recent events that welcomed international participation in China.
  • China plans to continue expanding access in services and promote two-way investments over the next five years.
  • Innovation is a key focus, with China ranking among the top ten most innovative economies and seeking collaboration with California in various high-tech fields.

Context

The remarks were made in a climate of evolving economic relations between China and the United States, with an emphasis on mutual respect and cooperation to address global challenges.

What happens next

Further discussions and initiatives are expected to emerge from the forum, aiming to strengthen the economic ties between China and California while addressing shared goals in sustainability and innovation.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding specific agreements or collaborations resulting from the forum have not been confirmed.