China welcomes CEOs: China recently rolled out a grand welcome for foreign executives in a bid to reverse the decline in corporate investment, yet many departing CEOs remain wary, citing lingering doubts about the country's investment climate. Despite a week of high-profile events, including pledges of equal treatment for foreign firms and reassurances of hitting growth targets, executives express caution. They highlight a persistent decline in foreign direct investment (FDI), down 8% last year alone, reflecting broader concerns about China's economic trajectory.

Executives cite various factors denting China's appeal: uncertainty over its economic recovery, mounting regulatory challenges, and state-backed initiatives favouring domestic champions. Additionally, strained relations with the U.S. add complexity to the investment landscape.

Critics note discrepancies in treatment between foreign and state-affiliated firms, contributing to market distortions and overcapacity woes. While China has introduced measures to restore investor confidence, doubts linger about their efficacy, particularly among European firms facing market access hurdles. Despite these challenges, China's allure persists, evidenced by the robust presence of multinational corporations at recent forums. However, questions remain over the government's commitment to addressing investor concerns, as selective meetings raise eyebrows about China's engagement strategy.

While some view China's efforts positively, others remain cautiously optimistic, recognizing the fluidity of the investment landscape amid global shifts.

In essence, while China's charm offensive may have captured attention, scepticism prevails among CEOs, signalling a challenging road ahead for reigniting corporate investment in the world's second-largest economy.

With Reuters Input