Shanghai solidifies status as global hub for overseas investment

SHANGHAI, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from english.shanghai.gov.cn

The 2025 Shanghai Global Investment Promotion Conference, held on March 25, brought together hundreds of business representatives, renowned investment institutions, and key chambers of commerce. It highlighted Shanghai's pivotal role as a premier global investment destination and its enduring appeal to international investors.

Jenny Johnson, president and chief executive officer of Franklin Templeton, a global asset management giant, emphasized her company's strong confidence in the city. "Our longstanding presence here reflects not only our confidence in Shanghai but also in China as a whole," she said, reinforcing a sentiment shared by many attendees.

This confidence is mirrored by the city's optimal business environment, which continues to attract substantial investment and serves as a vital R&D hub for foreign enterprises. "Our investments in Shanghai have grown at double-digit rates over the past 15 years and we are doubling our investment in China," noted Kilian Aviles, executive vice president of Dekra Group and head of the Asia-Pacific Region.

Further highlighting the significance of the conference, Zhang Xiaoyu, president of Arkema Greater China, stated, "This event highlights the government's commitment to further encouraging foreign investment through concrete measures. We will share this information with our headquarters so that they can better understand and gain more confidence in China."

Shanghai is a major hub of overseas investment, hosting over 75,000 enterprises from 192 countries and regions, which contribute more than a quarter of its GDP. The city boasts 1,016 regional headquarters of multinational companies and 591 foreign R&D centers, leading the nation in these metrics.

Such a dynamic environment makes Shanghai a prime location for foreign headquarters and a fertile ground for innovation among both State-owned and private enterprises. Li Shufu, chairman of Geely Holding, emphasized Shanghai's strong industrial base and favorable investment climate, which have benefited investors over the past two decades. Similarly, the commercial rocket division of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation has thrived in Shanghai, receiving extensive support from the city, which has streamlined policy implementation and enabled rapid operational capabilities.

In this innovative landscape, businesses can not only find abundant growth opportunities but also cultivate a symbiotic relationship with the city. With 2.8987 million enterprises, Shanghai leads the nation in both total numbers and entrepreneurial density. This synergy between businesses and the city not only drives economic growth but also reinforces Shanghai's position as a leader in global innovation and investment.

For more information: https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-InvestmentPromotionConference2025/index.html

SOURCE english.shanghai.gov.cn