Published by ChinaMNC · Weibin

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

A high-level political event underscores stability and long-term planning—key context for foreign entrepreneurs registering or operating a company in China.

A High-Profile Anniversary and Its Relevance to Business

On October 22, 2026, China held a major commemorative event in Beijing marking the 90th anniversary of the Long March. The gathering, held at the Great Hall of the People, featured a keynote speech by Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, President of the People's Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission. Senior leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng attended. Zhao Leji presided over the meeting.

For foreign founders registering or operating a company in China, this type of official event is not directly about business regulations. However, it offers signals about the policy environment and the leadership's priorities. Understanding these signals can help founders anticipate the direction of economic governance and align their long-term planning accordingly.

Key Messages from the Speech

Xi's speech emphasized themes of historical remembrance, unity, and continuous effort. He stated that remembering history enables a better future and called for the whole Party, military, and people of all ethnic groups to unite more closely around the Party Central Committee, carry forward the spirit of the Long March, and strive to create new achievements on the new journey.

The speech reviewed the Long March, which took place from October 1934 to October 1936. It described how the Red Army's First, Second, and Fourth Front Armies and the 25th Army undertook a major military campaign that crossed more than ten provinces, covered 25,000 li, broke through enemy encirclement, and successfully shifted the strategic direction toward resisting Japanese aggression. Xi noted that this feat had profound significance for the Party, the country, the military, and the nation's rejuvenation.

He attributed the success of the Long March to several factors: correct Party leadership, firm revolutionary will, independent and realistic decision-making, and support from the masses. These points were presented as lessons for the present.

Implications for the Business Climate

While the speech focused on historical and ideological themes, it also touched on current national goals. Xi mentioned that since the 18th Party Congress, socialism with Chinese characteristics has entered a new era. He noted that the first centenary goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects has been achieved on schedule, and that the country is now working toward the second centenary goal of building a great modern socialist country and advancing national rejuvenation through a Chinese path to modernization.

He outlined several requirements for the new journey, including:

• Pursuing high-quality development to meet people's growing needs for a better life, while coordinating the Five-Sphere Integrated Plan and the Four-Pronged Comprehensive Strategy.
• Promoting common prosperity for all people.
• Balancing development and security and tackling risks and challenges with a proactive historical spirit.
• Building a world-class military and achieving the centenary goal of the People's Liberation Army.
• Strengthening Party leadership and advancing full and rigorous Party self-governance.

For foreign founders, these points suggest that China's leadership continues to prioritize stability, development, and security. The emphasis on high-quality development and common prosperity indicates that policies may favor sustainable and inclusive growth. The focus on security and risk management could mean that regulatory frameworks will remain attentive to systemic risks.

Practical Takeaways for Company Registration and Operations

Foreign entrepreneurs should view such political events as part of the broader context in which business decisions are made. They do not alter specific registration procedures or tax rules, but they can inform strategic thinking.

1. Long-Term Planning

The speech's theme of continuous effort and new journeys reinforces the importance of long-term commitment. Foreign founders should prepare for sustained engagement in the Chinese market, including compliance with evolving regulations and adaptation to policy priorities.

2. Alignment with National Goals

Understanding China's emphasis on high-quality development and common prosperity can help founders identify sectors and business models that are likely to receive support. For example, projects that contribute to technological innovation, environmental sustainability, or regional development may find a more receptive environment.

3. Risk Management

The call to balance development and security suggests that foreign companies should maintain robust risk management and compliance systems. This includes data security, supply chain resilience, and adherence to local laws.

4. Local Engagement

The speech highlighted the importance of grassroots support and unity. For foreign founders, this translates into building strong relationships with local partners, employees, and communities. Understanding local conditions and engaging respectfully can enhance operational stability.

Why This Event Matters for Foreign Founders

While the commemorative event was primarily political and historical, it reflects the leadership's overarching vision. Foreign founders who monitor such events can gain insight into the policy environment and adjust their strategies accordingly. This is particularly relevant for those in the process of company registration or expansion in China, as it underscores the importance of aligning business plans with national priorities and maintaining a long-term perspective.

In summary, the 90th anniversary of the Long March serves as a reminder of China's emphasis on resilience, unity, and strategic planning. For foreign entrepreneurs, these themes translate into practical considerations: plan for the long term, align with national development goals, manage risks carefully, and engage deeply with local stakeholders.

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

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