europe.chinadaily.com.cn
High Number of Foreign Companies in China Underscores Importance of US-China Trade Relations
Amidst declining global cross-border investment, 75,000 foreign-invested companies operated in China during the first half of 2025, highlighting its significance as a global market; FedEx CEO Rajesh Subramaniam and other US business leaders emphasize the importance of stable US-China trade relations for global prosperity and competitiveness.
- How do the actions and statements of US companies operating in China reflect the broader economic and geopolitical context?
- US-China trade relations are vital for global prosperity, according to FedEx CEO Rajesh Subramaniam. A recent USCBC delegation to Beijing, including representatives from major US firms, aimed to strengthen commercial ties and advocate for a stable business environment in China. This underscores the belief that China remains a crucial market due to its consumer base, growth, and supply chains.
- What are the potential long-term impacts of China's economic reforms and opening-up on global supply chains and technological innovation?
- China's ongoing industrial upgrading, green transformation, and further opening-up create long-term opportunities for foreign businesses in high-end manufacturing, smart mobility, and services. Continued US-China dialogue could reduce global supply chain uncertainty and boost innovation in green technology and digital infrastructure, benefiting both nations and global markets. Cummins Inc., for example, plans to launch next-generation products in China next year, aiming to support Chinese carmakers' global expansion.
- What is the significance of the increasing number of foreign-invested companies operating in China and the ongoing dialogue between the US and China regarding trade?
- Despite declining global cross-border investment, 75,000 foreign-invested companies with foreign trade businesses operated in China during the first half of 2025—the highest number for that period since 2021. This signifies China's enduring appeal as an investment destination and its importance to the global competitiveness of many US companies, such as FedEx, which operates over 300 weekly international flights to and from China.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is framed overwhelmingly positively towards the US-China trade relationship. The headline (if there was one) likely emphasized the importance of cooperation. The article prioritizes quotes from business leaders and officials expressing optimism and downplays any potential risks or criticisms. This framing could lead readers to overestimate the stability and benefits of the relationship.
Language Bias
The language used is generally positive and emphasizes the mutual benefits of cooperation. Words like "pivotal," "vital," "essential," and "significant" are used to describe the relationship, creating a favorable tone. More neutral alternatives could include words such as "important," "substantial," or "considerable.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on positive perspectives from US businesses operating in China and Chinese government officials. Alternative viewpoints, such as concerns about human rights, intellectual property theft, or unfair trade practices, are notably absent. This omission could mislead readers into believing that the relationship is unequivocally positive and lacks significant challenges.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic view of the US-China trade relationship, focusing primarily on the benefits of cooperation and downplaying potential downsides or alternative approaches. It doesn't fully explore the complexities or potential conflicts of interest.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the significant role of China's economic growth in global prosperity and the positive impact of stable US-China trade relations on job creation and economic growth in both countries. The success of US companies operating in China, including FedEx, and the continued investment in China by foreign businesses demonstrate the positive impact on decent work and economic growth. The focus on industrial upgrading, green transformation, and opening-up further indicates positive developments in these areas.