The China-California Business Forum, now in its seventh year, convened in Los Angeles in 2025 to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, climate policy, and education between California and Chinese provinces. Operating under the China Provinces and US California Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment Cooperation, the forum brought together officials, industry leaders, and diplomats to renew and expand long-standing partnerships during a time of rising global economic uncertainty.
Fujian province was honored as the Guest Province of the 2025 forum. Delegations from both sides signed new agreements focusing on green development, education, and commercial exchange. These agreements are part of a broader strategy to encourage mutually beneficial investments and boost bilateral trade in sectors where California and Chinese regions possess complementary strengths.
Chinese Consul General Guo Shaochun emphasized the importance of California in China-US trade relations. In 2023, California exported goods valued at $15.1 billion and services worth $8.8 billion to China, making it a key contributor to the broader economic ties between the two countries. Furthermore, about 40 percent of all China-US goods trade flows through the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach. These ports support thousands of jobs and serve as crucial logistical gateways for trans-Pacific commerce.
China remains one of California’s top sources of foreign direct investment. According to forum data, Chinese investments directly support more than 25,000 jobs in California. These investments span various sectors including technology, real estate, manufacturing, and clean energy. Additionally, educational and cultural connections remain strong, with over 50,000 Chinese students currently enrolled in California institutions. Their presence contributes not only to the state’s higher education system but also to its local economy.
Toks Omishakin, California’s Secretary of Transportation, introduced a new initiative showcasing the state’s growing interest in sustainable transport solutions. He announced a demonstration project involving battery-swapping technology for electric trucks. This technology, already widely adopted in China, allows commercial vehicles to quickly exchange empty batteries for fully charged ones, reducing downtime and eliminating the need for long charging sessions. Omishakin pointed out that adopting this technology could significantly enhance California’s clean transportation goals.
Omishakin also highlighted a major cross-border initiative on green shipping. California and the city of Shanghai are working together to cut emissions on one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes: the corridor linking the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach with the Port of Shanghai. A forum held earlier in March addressed practical solutions for reducing carbon emissions in international shipping, marking an important step in global trade sustainability efforts.
Fujian Vice-Governor Wang Jinfu outlined the province’s growing economic exchanges with California. He noted that Fujian exports products such as textiles, furniture, and footwear to the United States, while welcoming California’s high-tech and agricultural goods. He described the trade relationship as naturally complementary and economically sound. Wang also referenced the historical Guling story, a symbol of deep-rooted friendship between the US and China. Guling, or Kuliang, was once a summer retreat for American families in Fujian. Their descendants now continue to promote cultural understanding through a group called “Kuliang Friends.”
Dilpreet Sidhu, Deputy Mayor of International Affairs for Los Angeles, highlighted ongoing cooperation with Chinese cities in education, tourism, and climate planning. She also announced the relaunch of Delta Airlines’ direct flight route between Los Angeles International Airport and Shanghai Pudong International Airport. The first flight is scheduled to depart the day after the forum, enhancing connectivity between the two regions.
Maria Salinas, President of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, pointed out that the forum takes place at a time when international cooperation is increasingly vital. Despite political tensions, she said that partnerships with Chinese provinces have delivered real results in clean energy projects, supply chain improvements, and business growth. Jim Wunderman, President of the Bay Area Council, echoed these sentiments, calling for stronger post-pandemic recovery efforts driven by US-China cooperation. He stated that cooperation, not competition, will yield the most long-term benefits for both nations.
