Chongqing - For two decades, some of the world’s leading companies have had a direct channel to Chongqing’s decision makers. The reason lies in the Chongqing Mayor’s International Economic Advisory Council (CMIA), which is marking its 20th anniversary as the city hosts its 20th meeting on September 22 to 23.

Since its establishment in 2006, CMIA has brought together executives from multinational corporations to share insights on industrial development, technology and urban growth, while many member companies have expanded their presence in the southwestern Chinese city.

During this period, member companies invested more than $100 billion in Chongqing, launched over 100 cooperation projects, contributed more than 2 trillion yuan (about 298 billion U.S. dollars) in foreign trade, and helped create over 700,000 jobs. 

Today, the council brings together 69 companies and 137 advisers from Fortune Global 500 companies and other leading multinational corporations.

The 19th Meeting of the Chongqing Mayor's International Economic Advisory Council (CMIA) was held in Chongqing with the theme "Building a Hub for AI Applications to Power High-Quality Industrial Development." (Photo/CMIA)

Unlike a conventional business conference, the council was designed as a long-term consultation process. Each year, advisers study a specific topic related to Chongqing's economic and social development, then submit recommendations before arriving in the city. During the meeting, they discuss those proposals directly with government officials.

That approach allows the conversation to go beyond investment promotion. Companies are not only asked what they need from Chongqing; they are also invited to share what they have learned from global markets, and offer ideas on how the city can respond to new opportunities and challenges.

Over the past two decades, many council members have become closely tied to Chongqing's economic growth, bringing global expertise and expanding their operations in the city.

Hitachi Energy, a global leader in power grids and energy technologies, has built one of its largest transformer manufacturing bases worldwide in Chongqing. The facility has an annual production capacity of more than 68,000 megavolt-amperes, with products exported to more than 30 countries.

Carlsberg, one of the world's leading brewing companies, has invested more than 10 billion yuan in Chongqing. Through its local subsidiary, Chongqing Brewery, the Danish brewer has expanded its presence in China, helping the company grow into one of the country's major beer producers. Chongqing Beer also became the first Chinese local beer brand to be brewed overseas.

The global leader in lighting technology Signify has supported Chongqing's urban development through smart and sustainable lighting solutions. The company provided LED sports lighting systems for the Huaxi LIVE Yudong stadium, helping the venue meet international standards for ice hockey and basketball events.

These investments represent only one part of the council's broader impact. Over the years, member companies have expanded their presence across sectors including advanced manufacturing, energy, consumer goods, infrastructure and technology, bringing not only capital but also global supply chains, management expertise and technological know-how to Chongqing.

As Chongqing deepens its integration into global markets, the council continues to serve as a platform linking the city with leading multinational companies. Beyond individual projects, the long-term partnerships built through the council are helping Chongqing strengthen its industrial base, accelerate technological upgrading and expand its connections with the global economy.