Published by ChinaMNC · Linze

What China's Long March 90th Anniversary Means for Foreign Founders Operating in China

A practical guide for foreign founders on the relevance of the Chinese government's commemoration of the 90th anniversary of the Long March, focusing on policy stability, leadership priorities, and business implications.

Understanding the Long March 90th Anniversary Commemoration

On October 22, 2026, China held a major commemorative event in Beijing to mark the 90th anniversary of the Long March. While this is a historical and political occasion, it carries signals that foreign founders operating in China should understand. The event underscores the continuity of China's leadership priorities and the ideological framework that shapes policy. For foreign entrepreneurs, this provides context for the business environment and regulatory stability you can expect.

Key Facts from the Source

The source article, published by Xinhua News Agency, reports that the commemoration took place at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. President Xi Jinping delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of remembering history to shape the future. The event was attended by other senior leaders, including Li Qiang, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, with Zhao Leji presiding.

The Long March, which took place from October 1934 to October 1936, was a military retreat by the Red Army. According to the speech, it involved the First, Second, and Fourth Front Armies and the 25th Army, covering over 25,000 li across more than ten provinces. The article notes that the Long March was a strategic success that shifted the Communist Party's base and marked a turning point. While these historical details may seem distant, they are presented as foundational to the Party's legitimacy and approach to governance.

Why This Matters for Foreign Founders

Foreign founders often focus on market data, regulations, and operational logistics. However, understanding the political and ideological context can help you anticipate policy directions. The speech emphasized several principles that have practical implications for business:

• Party leadership and centralized decision-making: The article stresses the decisive role of the Party's correct leadership, particularly the establishment of Mao Zedong's core position, in the Long March's success. In today's context, this translates to a highly centralized policy-making process. For foreign founders, this means that regulatory changes can be swift and uniform across regions, requiring agility in compliance.
• Independent and pragmatic approach: The speech highlights the importance of applying Marxist principles in accordance with China's specific realities. This suggests a pragmatic but sovereign approach to economic policy. Foreign businesses should expect China to prioritize its own development model, which may include selective openness and industrial policies favoring domestic priorities.
• Reliance on the people: The article emphasizes that the Party's strength comes from close ties with the masses. In business terms, this can signal a focus on social stability, consumer protection, and labor rights. Foreign founders should ensure their operations align with these expectations, particularly in areas like employment practices and consumer data handling.
• Continuous struggle and adaptation: The speech frames the Long March as an ongoing journey, with new challenges to overcome. This rhetoric often precedes policy shifts or campaigns. For instance, the emphasis on "high-quality development" and "common prosperity" in recent years reflects this. Foreign founders should monitor such language for signals of regulatory focus, such as environmental standards or wealth distribution measures.

Practical Takeaways for Your China Strategy

Based on the source, here are actionable insights for foreign founders:

• Monitor leadership rhetoric: Speeches by top leaders often set the tone for upcoming policies. The emphasis on "new long march" and "new era" suggests continued emphasis on self-reliance and national rejuvenation. This could affect sectors like technology and manufacturing, where domestic innovation is prioritized.
• Prepare for centralized policy implementation: The mention of "five musts" in the speech (upholding Party leadership, promoting high-quality development, engaging in great struggles, building a world-class military, and strengthening Party discipline) indicates a comprehensive approach. For businesses, this means aligning with national goals, such as contributing to technological advancement or regional development.
• Engage with local communities: The historical reliance on people's support translates to modern expectations of corporate social responsibility. Foreign founders should build good relations with local stakeholders, including government officials and communities, to navigate potential regulatory hurdles.
• Stay informed on military-civilian integration: The speech mentions building a world-class military. While not directly business-related, it signals potential opportunities in dual-use technologies and defense-related supply chains. However, foreign investment in such areas may face stricter scrutiny.

Conclusion

The commemoration of the Long March's 90th anniversary is more than a historical event; it reflects the ideological underpinnings of China's current leadership. For foreign founders, understanding these foundations can help you anticipate policy trends and adapt your business strategy accordingly. While the article does not provide specific regulatory changes, it reinforces the importance of aligning with China's development goals and maintaining flexibility in a centralized policy environment.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.

Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.