For many Chinese companies, Southeast Asia is no longer just a nearby export market; it's the testing ground for global expansion. As growth slows at home and geopolitical risks rise abroad, Chinese firms are increasingly turning to ASEAN for new customers, resources, manufacturing platforms, and strategic opportunities. Yet success in the region requires far more than competitive products or manufacturing scale.

Drawing on international business theory and practical examples, CEIBS Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship Daniel Chng explores why ASEAN has become strategically indispensable to Chinese globalisation, and how Chinese firms can build lasting competitive advantage in one of the world's most dynamic yet complex regions.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is just around the corner. The tournament's expansion from 32 to 48 teams this year offered more qualification opportunities than ever before, including for Asian teams. Yet China once again failed to qualify.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 continues across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, global attention has once again turned to the business side of football. Although China has not qualified for the FIFA World Cup since 2002, its population remains one of the tournament's most important markets, and its companies some of its most high-profile sponsors.

“China needs the access to the European Union’s markets, and China does not have the alternatives.”

"Ghana poised to benefit from China’s zero-tariff policy."

“With logistics networks making the flow of goods as seamless as possible, factories in Vietnam (can) become an extension of factories in China.”

As China and Latin America deepen cooperation across advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, infrastructure, technology, digital commerce and consumer markets, new opportunities are emerging for businesses on both sides. At the same time, greater collaboration requires stronger local partnerships, cultural understanding and long-term strategic thinking.

The global business landscape is being reshaped by geopolitical shifts, rapid technological advancement, and the ongoing reconfiguration of supply chains. Within this evolving context, China’s role is undergoing a profound transformation—from the “world factory” that powered global manufacturing to an increasingly influential innovation engine shaping the future of industries.

Gain a complete framework from macro geopolitics on-the-ground strategy, case studies, and panel insights.