The Asia New Vision Forum (ANVF) 2025 commenced on September 16 in Singapore, uniting over 600 leaders from various sectors to address pressing global economic challenges. Organized by Caixin Global with support from the Singapore Tourism Board, this year’s forum is themed “Charting the Future Amid Uncertainty.” It marks the third consecutive year the event has been held in Singapore.
During his keynote address, Gan Kim Yong, Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, discussed Asia’s pivotal role in an increasingly fragmented world. His remarks set the stage for a series of discussions aimed at navigating the complexities of the current global landscape. Wang Shuo, Editor-in-Chief of Caixin Media, further elaborated on the forum’s theme, emphasizing the need for flexibility in the face of unpredictability. He referenced Cold War scholar John Gaddis, highlighting that embracing contradictions can be beneficial during uncertain times.
The opening panel featured prominent figures such as Hu Shuli, Publisher of Caixin Media, and Lawrence H. Summers, Former U.S. Treasury Secretary and Professor at Harvard University. Their discussion covered key topics including U.S. tariffs, artificial intelligence, and the dynamics of China-U.S. relations. Summers described U.S. tariffs as “extremely unwise,” while acknowledging that the global trading system remains resilient. He emphasized the shared responsibility of both nations to ensure that advancements in AI lead to economic growth without fostering a competitive mindset that could exacerbate tensions.
Over the course of three days, ANVF 2025 will host more than 30 sessions, including plenaries, panel discussions, and workshops. The agenda aims to explore Asia’s evolving economic role while delving into urgent issues like geopolitics, biotechnology, and the energy transition. Senior executives from various industries will lead discussions focused on innovation, sustainability, and market strategies.
In a notable address, Cao Zhongming, Chinese Ambassador to Singapore, outlined a vision for strengthened ASEAN-China business ties. His remarks underscored the importance of collaboration in navigating a shifting global economy. The forum will also feature panels addressing geopolitical tensions, including “Trump 2.0 & Asia’s New Playbook,” where speakers will analyze trade flows and investment strategies in light of current challenges.
On the first day, sessions such as “Investing in Asia: How Businesses and Investors Adapt” and “Digital Assets in Motion: The Next Era of Finance” aimed to provide insights into Asia’s investment landscape. These discussions are crucial for understanding the region’s adaptability in a rapidly changing financial environment.
A highlight of the first day was a keynote by Huang Yiping, Dean of the National School of Development at Peking University, who shared insights on “China’s Economy: Realities, Visions, and the Path Forward.” The inaugural Caixin CG Capital Forum was also launched, focusing on the implications of AI and automation for the future.
The forum’s practical business exchange platform includes workshops tailored for Chinese enterprises seeking to expand globally. These sessions will address real-world challenges regarding policy, branding, and market entry, providing valuable insights from industry veterans.
As ANVF 2025 progresses, discussions will continue to spotlight critical issues that shape the global landscape. The concluding events will feature a gala dinner where prominent figures like Fang Xinghai, former Vice Chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, will engage in dialogues about China’s capital markets and global opportunities.
The Asia New Vision Forum has established itself as a significant platform for international dialogue and cooperation, with plans to return to Singapore for its 2027 and 2029 editions. As it evolves, the forum aims to continue fostering high-level exchanges among business leaders, policymakers, and academics from around the world.
