Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Manufacturing in a Fragmented World
China’s industrial output grew by nearly 6% in 2024 and the country continues to dominate the manufacturing sector globally, which underpins its export growth.
As tariffs begin to take effect and China’s services sector ramps up, what is the outlook for both the traditional and new sources of production?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Pivoting Workforce
With an active population of over 1 billion, the Asia-Pacific region is at the forefront of workforce transformation. As AI and emerging technologies reshape industries, the region has the opportunity to harness entrepreneurial talent, upskill its workers, boost productivity and advance regional mobility.
How are leaders harnessing human capital and technological know-how to create a new working environment that balances innovation and worker well-being?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Where Is Belt and Road Heading?
Since the Belt and Road Initiative was launched over 10 years ago, China has established collaboration with over 150 countries and 30 international organizations and facilitated over $380 billion in cumulative two-way investment with countries along the road.
Amid geoeconomic shifts, how have these projects measured up to their objectives and what new directions might this initiative take?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Trade: Trends and Endgames
With heightened uncertainty on increased tariffs, the risk of geoeconomic fragmentation is growing.
How has the trade landscape shifted compared to recent years and how can leaders look beyond the current volatility?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Honest Conversation on Climate
A decade after the Paris Agreement, policies and politics have evolved but the associated risks from climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss remain. Although the narrative is shifting towards energy security, national and regional actors are still looking towards innovative solutions to climate challenges.
How are government and business commitments shifting and what could change mean for industries that have been preparing for future green growth?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
A Conversation with Sir Tony Blair
A Conversation with Sir Tony Blair, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (1997-2007); Executive Chairman, Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, United Kingdom
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Reading the US Economy
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the US economy has outperformed most other developed economies, benefiting from continued investment in innovation and a strong workforce.
As a new policy direction comes into view, what is the outlook for the world’s largest economy?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Foresight on China Start-ups
China is one of the world’s largest innovation ecosystems, accounting for over half of all AI patents and leading in autonomous vehicle deployment. However, its entrepreneurial landscape is facing increasing headwinds.
How does this shifting trajectory compare with other global ecosystems – and what will be the next chapter?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Next Steps for Climate Resilience
Businesses investing in climate resilience and adaptation could see tangible returns – $2-$19 in value for every dollar spent – while taking the necessary steps to avoid annual profitability declines from climate impacts of up to 7% by 2035.
How can new strategies, from partnerships to technology and innovation, be leveraged to strengthen these efforts?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Women in AI
Women constitute around 25%-30% of the AI workforce worldwide, per recent estimates. This underrepresentation is even more pronounced in senior roles, with less than 15% of executive positions held by women.
As demands for AI talent continue to grow, what are the most promising approaches to ramp up AI hiring and diversify talent sources in the broader industry?
