FCGF 2026: Global Leaders Call for Cooperation and Responsible AI Amid Shifting Geopolitics
More than 1,400 business leaders, policymakers, and tech executives gathered at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre for the 17th FutureChina Global Forum (FCGF) to chart a course through accelerating AI adoption, China’s economic transition, and growing global fragmentation.
Themed “Strengthening Resilience, Rebuilding Trust,” the 1.5-day bilingual forum focused on actionable strategy over broad disruption. Speakers touched on challenges faced by the region, from safeguarding the rules-based international order to deploying AI safely across high-stakes industries.
Outcome-Driven AI & Human Accountability
Opening the FCGF with a half day dedicated AI Track, Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How emphasised that Singapore’s AI strategy will focus on converting technology into concrete operational outcomes rather than competing on sheer compute power.
Panellists speaking at the AI Track noted that pairing China’s manufacturing and engineering depth with Singapore’s trusted, well-governed framework offers a strong blueprint for regional innovation. As autonomous systems scale, leaders called for strict human oversight, continuous safety testing, and international cooperation on standards.
Regional Openness in a Multipolar Landscape
At the main forum, Guest-of-Honour Gan Kim Yong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, reiterated the importance of regional cohesion as Singapore prepares for its 2027 ASEAN Chairmanship. DPM Gan stressed that ASEAN must remain open and connected, equipping itself to shape its own future amidst major-power competition.
Business China Chairman Lee Yi Shyan also noted that navigating today’s geopolitical and technological competition requires proactive cooperation between Singapore, China, and Asia to unlock new avenues for growth.
China’s Growth Phase & ASEAN Integration
With China entering its 15th Five-Year Plan period, discussions highlighted momentum in high-value sectors such as EVs, advanced batteries, and high-tech manufacturing. As Chinese firms expand supply and consumer networks across Southeast Asia, speakers noted that domestic policy focus on real estate, job security, and durable income growth will remain crucial to bolstering consumer confidence.
Concluding the FCGF with a fireside chat, Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Minister for Defence Chan Chun Sing reinforced that Singapore and ASEAN must maintain strong cross-border integration across financial, data, and energy systems to remain relevant in a fragmented global economy.
Find out more from the official Media Release.