Published by ChinaMNC · Chengcheng

China's Leadership Commemorates Long March 90th Anniversary: Implications for Foreign Founders

A summary of the Chinese government's commemoration of the 90th anniversary of the Long March, with practical takeaways for foreign entrepreneurs operating in China.

China's Leadership Commemorates Long March 90th Anniversary: Implications for Foreign Founders

On October 22, 2026, China held a grand gathering at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army's Long March. President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the importance of remembering history to forge ahead. The event was attended by senior leaders including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Vice President Han Zheng. For foreign founders registering or operating a company in China, such official commemorations offer insight into the values and priorities that shape China's business environment.

Historical Context and National Narratives

Xi Jinping reviewed the Long March, which took place from October 1934 to October 1936. Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, the First, Second, and Fourth Front Armies and the 25th Army undertook a massive strategic relocation, traveling through more than ten provinces and covering 25,000 li. They overcame encirclement and interception by over a million enemy troops, ultimately achieving the strategic goal of moving north to resist Japanese aggression and opening a new phase of the Chinese revolution. This event is portrayed as a turning point with profound implications for the nation's rejuvenation.

For foreign entrepreneurs, understanding such historical milestones helps contextualize the resilience and long-term planning that characterize China's governance. The emphasis on perseverance and strategic adaptation resonates with the challenges of building a business in a dynamic market.

Key Principles Highlighted by President Xi

In his speech, Xi Jinping underscored several principles that he attributed to the Long March's success, which continue to inform China's development strategy:

• Leadership and Core Authority: The victory was attributed to the correct leadership of the Party and the establishment of Mao Zedong's core position, which is presented as decisive.
• Revolutionary Will and Ideals: Firm revolutionary ideals and beliefs are described as a source of immense strength, enabling an army with lofty ideals to be invincible.
• Independence and Pragmatism: The importance of integrating Marxist principles with China's concrete realities is stressed, highlighting a pragmatic approach to problem-solving.
• Support of the People: The masses are portrayed as the wellspring of strength and a strong backing for the Party and the army.

These principles reflect a governance philosophy that values stability, adaptability, and popular support—factors that can influence policy-making and regulatory environments affecting foreign businesses.

The Long March Spirit and Its Modern Relevance

Xi Jinping described the Long March as a remarkable human feat that forged a great spirit, characterized by loyalty, truth, justice, and unity. This spirit is presented as a valuable asset for overcoming difficulties and moving forward. For foreign founders, the concept of a "new Long March" symbolizes the ongoing journey of national development, with current goals including high-quality development, common prosperity, and the construction of a modern socialist country.

Since the 18th National Congress of the CPC, China has entered a new era. The first centenary goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects has been realized, and the country is now focused on the second centenary goal of building a great modern socialist country. This long-term vision suggests a policy environment that prioritizes sustained economic growth and social stability, which can be beneficial for businesses that align with national objectives.

Practical Takeaways for Foreign Founders

While the commemoration is a political event, it offers several practical implications for foreign entrepreneurs:

• Understand the Policy Direction: The emphasis on high-quality development and common prosperity indicates that China continues to prioritize sustainable and inclusive growth. Foreign businesses may find opportunities in sectors that support these goals, such as technology, green energy, and advanced manufacturing.
• Adapt to Local Realities: The principle of integrating theory with practice underscores the importance of localizing business strategies to fit China's market conditions and regulatory framework.
• Engage with the Community: The focus on popular support highlights the value of building strong relationships with local stakeholders, including customers, partners, and government authorities.
• Prepare for Challenges: The spirit of perseverance serves as a reminder that operating in China may involve navigating complex regulations and market dynamics, requiring resilience and long-term commitment.

Conclusion

The 90th anniversary of the Long March is a moment for China to reaffirm its national narrative and development path. For foreign founders, staying informed about such events provides context for the business environment and helps in aligning strategies with China's broader objectives. By understanding the values and priorities highlighted by the leadership, entrepreneurs can better position their companies for success in the Chinese market.

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

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