Fortune Global Forum Background

Each year the FORTUNE Global Forum gathers global chief executives, leaders in government, scholars, economists, and top-ranking FORTUNE editors for an intensive exploration of key issues facing multinational corporations, in a location that is a focal point of global economic interest.

The FORTUNE Global Forum is open solely to chairmen, presidents, CEOs, and top managing directors of large multinational companies. Participation is by invitation only. Participants come from around the world, but all share the challenges of running global corporations. This combination of shared purpose and geographical diversity generates dynamic and effective discussion and encourages new business relationships.

Beijing, The People's Republic of China, 16-18 May 2005

China and the New Asian Century

Welcome to the Asian century. Already a dominant force in trade, China will overtake the US to become the world's largest economy by mid-century-with India not far behind. As the economic center of gravity shifts, the dynamics of the global economy will change dramatically. Tapping into the enormous potential of China and its Asian neighbors and preparing for the new economic dynamic are essential for multinationals looking to prosper in the decades ahead. The FORTUNE Global Forum will bring the chiefs of global business together with political leaders, policymakers, and scholars from around the region and the world to assess the issues, challenges, and opportunities inherent in the new Asian century.