According to a report in China Daily on February 6, 2026
PwC survey highlights rising interest, AI-driven growth, and supply-chain resilience among Chinese and multinational companies.
Global CEOs are increasingly placing China among their top investment destinations, with 11% ranking the mainland in their top three, up from 9% last year, according to PwC’s 29th CEO Survey China. Chinese companies are also leading in AI adoption and operational flexibility, signaling a robust business environment and long-term growth opportunities for international investors.
PwC’s latest survey, covering 4,454 CEOs across 95 countries, shows a rebound in China’s investment appeal. CEOs from Indonesia, South Korea, Germany, and Switzerland were especially bullish, with more than 20% naming China as a top-three destination.
Industry-specific trends reveal growing confidence in industrial products and energy sectors. 14% of global industrial companies now prioritize China, up from 2025, while the energy, utilities, and resources sector rose to 13%.
Chinese executives are also displaying exceptional macroeconomic confidence. 67% of Chinese CEOs anticipate sustained global recovery over the next year, surpassing the 61% global average. This optimism reflects China’s stable business environment and strategic adaptability.
A standout theme is AI-driven growth. Over half of Chinese CEOs (52%) reported revenue gains from AI adoption—well above the global 29% average. 17% achieved both cost reduction and revenue growth, demonstrating the mainland’s edge in applying AI across demand generation, support services, product enhancement, and strategic decision-making.
The survey further highlights resilience against supply-side shocks. More than 40% of Chinese firms report high operational flexibility, compared with 28% globally, underpinned by China’s comprehensive industrial ecosystem and diversified supply chains.
“China’s companies are redefining global investment norms,” said Zhou Xing, PwC China. “Long-term optimism, agile strategy, and AI-enabled growth are driving sustainable value creation.”
As China deepens its high-quality development strategy, firms are actively optimizing global investment footprints, integrating technology, and building multi-dimensional resilience, offering international investors clear insights into both market opportunities and strategic risks.