The Hongqiao HUB Conference 2025 takes place at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) on Nov 6. [Photo provided to en.shhqcbd.gov.cn]

The Hongqiao HUB Conference 2025, part of this year's Hongqiao International Economic Forum, opened on Nov 6 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

The event gathered industry leaders and experts to discuss strategies for Chinese firms looking to expand abroad.

With the tagline "Hongqiao, Bridging the World: Chinese Enterprises Venturing Abroad Amid Global Shifts", it also highlighted Hongqiao's role in connecting China with the global market and supporting Chinese companies as they expand internationally.

Jack Perry, chairman of the 48 Group, which is committed to promoting cooperation between China and the United Kingdom, proposed the "Icebreaking 3.0 Era". He emphasized the need for better frameworks to help Chinese companies and technologies integrate into Western markets amid rapid technological changes and evolving globalization.

Richard Baldwin, professor of International Economics at the International Institute for Management Development, who is known for his works on global economics, analyzed changes in global value chains and their impact on China. He provided strategies to tackle global supply chain challenges and noted that China's "Going Global" strategy solidifies its status as a global economic powerhouse.

The conference also featured two "HUB DIALOGUE" sessions, where successful Hongqiao-based companies shared their experiences alongside professional service firms. The sessions offered practical advice on overcoming international market challenges.

In response to the practical needs and urgent challenges faced by Chinese enterprises going global, the conference released the "Guidelines for Chinese Enterprises Going Global" and the "Hongqiao Cases of Going Global", developed in collaboration with professional service organizations.

At the conference, the Hongqiao Overseas Development Service Center 3.0 was launched. The upgraded center focuses on international business growth, talent development, trade cooperation, and innovation. It provides a one-stop solution for everything from planning and staffing to setting up operations and fostering innovation, aiming to create a supportive ecosystem for global expansion.