Prominent Researchers Gather at PKU Shenzhen Forum to Discuss AI and Economic Development

On March 30, 2025, the PKU Shenzhen Forum, hosted by the HSBC Business School of Peking University (PHBS), brought together over 1,000 esteemed researchers, policymakers, and business leaders at the Wuzhou Guest House in Shenzhen. The central theme of the event was "Building a Consensus on Reform, Stimulating Innovation." This interdisciplinary platform aims to foster discussions on the critical intersection of technology, economy, and public policy.

Founded in 2007 and expanded beyond the university campus in 2021, the PKU Shenzhen Forum has established itself as a vital dialogue forum addressing pressing issues in economics and technology. The opening speech by PHBS’s founding dean, Hai Wen, emphasized the significance of reform and innovation as pivotal drivers of development. He remarked, “Deepening reforms and continuous innovation have been the cornerstones of China’s growth over the past 40 years.”

Professor Zhang Jin, Vice President of Peking University and Chancellor of the Shenzhen Graduate School, spotlighted the booming field of artificial intelligence, particularly its contribution to scientific progress. He underscored the need for supporting digital research platforms and cultivating interdisciplinary talents who can leverage AI for scientific discovery.

Li Yang, President of the National Institution for Finance Development, provided insights into the macroeconomic landscape, noting stable early-year performances alongside challenges, such as dependence on external demand and weak private investments. He called for proactive budgetary and monetary policies, advocating for a more consumer-oriented approach to stimulate internal investment.

Wang Yiming from the China Center for International Economic Exchanges reinforced the idea that technological innovation is essential to energizing the economy. He stressed the importance of enhancing links between education, research, and talent development.

In the realm of international business, Professor Wang Yizhou of Peking University deliberated on the value of academic research in adapting to global changes. He highlighted the potential for deeper international engagement and the necessity for revised perspectives to keep pace with evolving global dynamics.

The session concluded with remarks from Lu Mai, former Vice President of the China Development Research Foundation, who urged investment in early childhood development, especially in rural areas. He highlighted that long-term prosperity hinges on improving care, education, and nutrition for the younger generations.

The PKU Shenzhen Forum continues to be an influential platform for strategic dialogue, bridging diverse perspectives to mark a new chapter in PHBS's ongoing efforts to unify academic voices in the domains of economics, technology, and public policy. With its interdisciplinary focus, the forum fosters collaboration that is crucial for addressing the challenges of today and paving the way for a more innovative future.