The inaugural China forum of the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) opened in Beijing, bringing together international business leaders, government officials and innovators to discuss solutions to global energy transition challenges. Organised jointly by the Sustainable Markets Initiative and the China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC), this event marks the first meeting in China between global economic decision-makers and their local counterparts under the SMI banner.
International dialogue on supply chains
The forum takes place alongside the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), highlighting China’s position as a key player in global clean energy. According to figures cited during the discussions, China now has the largest renewable energy system in the world, with annual investments surpassing those of the next ten leading countries combined. Chinese President Xi Jinping recalled in April 2025 the sector’s strategic importance, emphasising China’s global leadership in solar, wind and hydropower, as well as electric vehicle production.
Discussions are focused on creating sustainable supply chains and mobilising private investment to accelerate large-scale energy transitions. The Sustainable Markets Initiative, founded in 2020 by His Majesty King Charles III, aims to reinforce dialogue and cooperation among global economic leaders, supporting the structuring of new sector partnerships.
Working groups and sector perspectives
Since the establishment of the SMI China Council in 2021, working groups dedicated to health, energy, carbon capture and storage, as well as sustainable finance, have been launched. According to the China Chamber of International Commerce, these collaborative platforms accelerate knowledge sharing and funding of innovative solutions for the energy transition. The scheduled round tables will address emission reduction, electrification, artificial intelligence applied to industry, and developments in aerospace.
Jennifer Jordan-Saifi, Chief Executive Officer of the Sustainable Markets Initiative, highlighted at the forum’s opening that “the inaugural SMI China Forum creates a new gateway between Chinese and international business leaders”, noting the importance of cooperation “beyond borders, industries and finances” to achieve global growth and development objectives.
Economic challenges and international cooperation
The rapprochement in Beijing comes as China asserts its leadership in the energy sector, both through investment volume and the diversification of its industrial sectors. The organisation of the SMI China Forum reflects both parties’ willingness to intensify cooperation between companies and institutions, in an environment marked by increasing interdependence of supply chains and the rise of energy security issues.
In a speech delivered in 2025, President Xi Jinping stated that “green transformation constitutes a new engine of economic and social development”. The joint participation of senior private sector leaders and public authorities in Beijing demonstrates the recognition of the central role of innovation and international cooperation in the evolution of the global energy market.
