Growing Ties with China at Greater Bay Area Development Business Conference

The Bay Area Council’s Jennifer Zou participated recently in the first-ever Greater Bay Area (GBA) Development Business Conference in Macau to promote California-China cooperation on a range of key issues. The event was a collaborative effort, hosted by several major Chinese governmental bodies, including the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade and the governments of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. Over 1,000 attendees from various sectors—government, academia, and business—were present. Notable figures included He Houhua, Vice Chairman of China’s top political advisory body, and Ho Iat Seng, Macau’s Chief Executive, along with Ren Hongbin, President of CCPIT.

The two-day event centered on developing the GBA and fostering a globally open economy. Topics ranged from digital innovation and green finance to international trade and cultural industries. Macao’s Chief Executive, Ho Iat Seng, highlighted Macao’s role in boosting tourism and various high-tech sectors to benefit the GBA. John Lee, Chief Executive of Hong Kong, remotely emphasized that the GBA is poised to become a global powerhouse, thanks to several key innovation zones in the region.

Zou, Vice President of Global Initiatives and Head of China Operations, stressed the need for collaboration in areas like digital economy and climate change. Through her participation in discussions and networking, Zou played a key role in sharing valuable insights and seeking partnership opportunities with the GBA. The Council’s active participation in such global forums underscores its dedication to enhancing competitiveness, spurring innovation, and contributing to a sustainable and inclusive world economy.