Published by ChinaMNC · Pingbianmiaozu
What China’s 90th Anniversary of the Long March Means for Foreign Founders
A high-level CCP commemoration highlights messages on leadership, resilience, and long-term planning that foreign entrepreneurs can consider when structuring and operating a company in China.
What China’s 90th Anniversary of the Long March Means for Foreign Founders
On October 22, 2026, a major commemorative event took place at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the 90th anniversary of the Chinese Red Army’s Long March. The meeting was attended by senior Chinese leaders, including Xi Jinping, who delivered a keynote speech. While the event was domestic and historical in nature, it offers foreign founders a window into the political and strategic priorities that shape China’s business environment. Below we summarize the key points from the official readout and translate them into practical considerations for foreign entrepreneurs registering or operating a company in China.
Event Overview
The commemoration was held on the morning of October 22, 2026, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The hall was decorated with the event title, the CCP emblem, the years “1936–2026,” and red flags. A banner on the second-floor gallery called for unity around the Party Central Committee with Xi Jinping at the core, implementation of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, and carrying forward the Long March spirit to advance national rejuvenation through Chinese-style modernization. Approximately 3,000 people attended, including central and local officials, representatives of democratic parties and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, non-party figures, veterans, military personnel, and residents of the capital.
Key Messages from the Speech
Xi Jinping’s speech emphasized that remembering history is essential to shaping the future. He called on the Party, the military, and people of all ethnic groups to unite more closely around the Party Central Committee, carry forward the great Long March spirit, and continue striving to create new achievements on the “new Long March.” The speech reviewed the Long March (October 1934–October 1936) and drew lessons from its success, including the importance of correct leadership, firm revolutionary will, independent and pragmatic decision-making, and support from the people. It also outlined “five musts” for the new era: upholding the Party’s ideals and purpose, promoting high-quality development, engaging in great struggles, building a world-class military, and strengthening Party leadership.
Implications for Foreign Founders
For foreign entrepreneurs, these messages are not direct regulations but signal the broader policy environment. Understanding them can help with strategic planning and compliance.
1. Emphasis on Leadership and Stability
The speech repeatedly stressed the decisive role of Party leadership and unity around the Central Committee. In practice, this means that China’s policy direction remains centrally coordinated. Foreign founders should expect a stable but highly regulated business landscape where alignment with national priorities—such as high-quality development, innovation, and common prosperity—can ease market access and regulatory engagement.
2. High-Quality Development and Common Prosperity
The “five musts” include a clear call to promote high-quality development that meets people’s growing needs and advances common prosperity. For foreign investors, this translates into opportunities in sectors that support sustainable growth, advanced manufacturing, green technology, and services that improve living standards. At the same time, businesses should be prepared for policies that aim to balance growth with social goals, such as environmental standards, labor protections, and data security.
3. Independent and Pragmatic Decision-Making
The speech highlighted the importance of independent and pragmatic decision-making and adapting principles to China’s specific conditions. For foreign founders, this suggests that China’s regulatory framework will continue to evolve in ways that suit domestic realities. It is advisable to work with local professional advisors who can interpret rule changes and help tailor business models to local requirements.
4. Development and Security
Xi’s address included the need to better coordinate development and security. This has direct relevance for foreign companies: expect continued scrutiny in areas related to national security, critical infrastructure, and data. Early attention to compliance—especially in cybersecurity, data localization, and export controls—can prevent disruptions.
5. Long-Term Perspective
The Long March is framed as a journey of perseverance and long-term vision. Similarly, foreign founders should adopt a long-term view when entering China. Building relationships, understanding local culture, and committing to compliance are essential for sustainable operations. Quick wins are possible, but lasting success often requires patience and adaptation.
Practical Steps for Foreign Founders
- Stay informed: Monitor official communications and policy documents that affect your industry. The messages from this event underscore the importance of aligning with national development goals.
- Engage local expertise: Work with Chinese lawyers, accountants, and business advisors to navigate registration, licensing, and ongoing compliance.
- Prioritize compliance: Pay special attention to data security, labor, tax, and environmental regulations, which are areas of ongoing policy focus.
- Build relationships: Cultivate ties with local partners, industry associations, and government service centers. These networks can provide guidance and support.
- Think long-term: Plan for sustained investment in China, including talent development and community engagement, to align with the country’s development trajectory.
Conclusion
The 90th anniversary of the Long March serves as a reminder of China’s commitment to its development path. For foreign founders, the event’s emphasis on leadership, high-quality development, and security provides useful context for strategic planning. By understanding these priorities and taking practical steps to comply and adapt, foreign entrepreneurs can better position their companies for success in China.
Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.
This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.