A Pakistani couple engages in discussions with a traditional Chinese medicine company after the roundtable meeting. [Photo by Yan Dongjie/for chinadaily.com.cn]

Nearly 300 representatives from the political, business, and academic sectors of more than 30 countries and regions gathered in Tianjin on Wednesday for in-depth discussions on topics including global value chains, innovation-driven development, artificial intelligence, and green computing power.

The Tianjin 2026 Global Business Leaders Roundtable focused on improving the business environment, deepening cooperation with multinational corporations, and supporting the city's drive to become an international consumption center while advancing industrial transformation and upgrading.

"Tianjin is not only an important gateway connecting China to the world, but also a highly attractive city," said Leong Kam-wai, executive director and Greater China chair of the World Economic Forum, highlighting its talent pool, research capacity, manufacturing supply chains, and innovation ecosystem.

Entrepreneurs from different countries exchange ideas during the meeting break. [Photo by Yan Dongjie/for chinadaily.com.cn]

Tianjin strengthened ties with the organization as host of the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting of the New Champions last summer. Leong said the roundtable comes at a timely moment to translate shared visions into concrete projects.

Business leaders also underscored the city's industrial strengths. Victor Chu, chairman of First Eastern Investment Group, pointed to the Airbus production base as a key example of Tianjin's ability to attract advanced manufacturing supply chains.

The gathering explores how Traditional Chinese Medicine can better address the needs of modern times. [Photo by Yan Dongjie/for chinadaily.com.cn]

Hussain Dawood, chairman of Pakistan's Engro Corporation, expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Tianjin in technology and education, citing its strong technological capabilities.

"The rapid growth of our overseas business is inseparable from Tianjin's sound business environment and favorable conditions," said Han Jinming, chairman of Foherb Group. "This roundtable will have a positive impact on local, domestic, and multinational enterprises alike. We will continue to promote Tianjin globally as we expand our business."