Published by ChinaMNC · Yangbiyizu

What China's Long March 90th Anniversary Means for Foreign Founders Operating in China

A practical look at the official commemoration of the 90th anniversary of the Long March and how foreign founders can align their China operations with the policy signals emphasized at the event.

What China's Long March 90th Anniversary Means for Foreign Founders Operating in China

On October 22, 2026, a high-level meeting commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Chinese Red Army's Long March was held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote address, with senior leaders Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Vice President Han Zheng in attendance. For foreign founders running or registering a company in China, the event offers more than historical reflection—it signals enduring policy priorities and governance principles that can inform business strategy and compliance.

The source article, published by the Yunnan Provincial People's Government portal and sourced from Xinhua, reports on the speeches and themes of the gathering. Below is a practical summary of the relevant points, reorganized for an international entrepreneurial audience. No new facts or claims have been added.

Historical Context and the Spirit of the Long March

According to the official account, Xi Jinping reviewed the period from October 1934 to October 1936, when the Communist Party of China led the First, Second, and Fourth Front Armies and the 25th Army on what the article describes as a world-shaking Long March. The Red Army traversed more than ten provinces, covered 25,000 li, broke through encirclement by over a million enemy troops, and successfully realized a strategic transfer northward to resist Japanese aggression. Xi emphasized that this feat holds great significance for the Party, the state, and the military, and has had a profound impact on the process of national rejuvenation.

For foreign founders, this historical framing is not merely ceremonial. It underscores a leadership narrative that values perseverance, strategic adaptation, and long-term vision—qualities that can resonate with the challenges of building a business in a complex market. Understanding this backdrop can help in reading official communications and anticipating policy continuity.

Core Principles Emphasized in the Speech

Xi Jinping identified several reasons for the Long March's success, which the article presents as enduring lessons. These principles may be useful for foreign founders as they navigate China's regulatory and business environment:

• Correct leadership: The article states that the victory was achieved under the correct leadership of the Party and that the establishment of Mao Zedong's core position was decisive. For businesses, this translates to the importance of understanding the central policy direction and aligning with national priorities.
• Firm revolutionary will: The speech stressed that revolutionary ideals and beliefs can unleash immense power. In a business context, this can be interpreted as the need for resilience and a clear mission when entering or expanding in China.
• Independence and seeking truth from facts: The article notes that Marxism must be closely integrated with China's concrete reality to solve China's problems. Foreign founders can take this as a reminder to localize strategies and respect local conditions rather than applying foreign models wholesale.
• Support of the people: Xi emphasized that the people are the source of strength and a strong backing. For companies, this suggests the value of engaging with local communities, understanding consumer needs, and building trust.

The speech also highlighted the "Great Long March Spirit," which the article describes as embodying the power of loyalty, truth, justice, and unity. This spirit is presented as a valuable asset for overcoming difficulties and moving forward.

Policy Directions for the New Era

Xi Jinping noted that since the 90th anniversary of the Long March victory, the Party has led the people through successive "new long marches" in revolution, construction, and reform. Since the 18th Party Congress, socialism with Chinese characteristics has entered a new era. The article states that the first centenary goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects has been achieved on schedule, and that the country is now striving to build a modern socialist country and realize the second centenary goal through Chinese-style modernization.

For foreign founders, these policy directions can inform strategic planning. The speech outlined several "musts" for the new journey, which may have practical implications:

• High-quality development: Xi called for steadfastly promoting high-quality development, meeting the people's growing needs for a better life, and advancing the Five-Sphere Integrated Plan and the Four-Pronged Comprehensive Strategy. This suggests continued focus on economic quality, innovation, and sustainability—areas where foreign companies can contribute and find opportunities.
• Common prosperity: The speech mentioned promoting common prosperity for all people, indicating attention to inclusive growth.
• Development and security: Xi stressed the need to better coordinate development and security, and to overcome difficulties, risks, and challenges with a historical initiative. Foreign founders should prioritize compliance and risk management.
• Modern military: The speech included accelerating the building of a world-class military and achieving the centenary goal of the People's Liberation Army. While not directly business-related, it reflects the overall security environment.
• Party leadership and discipline: Xi emphasized upholding Party leadership and strengthening Party building, including full and rigorous Party self-governance. This points to continued focus on integrity and rule of law in governance.

Practical Takeaways for Foreign Founders

While the commemoration is a political event, the underlying messages can be distilled into practical guidance for foreign entrepreneurs:

• Stay informed on policy priorities: The emphasis on high-quality development and common prosperity signals areas of government focus. Align your business plan with these themes where relevant.
• Localize and adapt: The principle of integrating theory with local reality underscores the need to adapt products, services, and operations to Chinese market conditions.
• Build trust with stakeholders: The emphasis on people and unity highlights the importance of engaging with local communities, employees, and partners.
• Prioritize compliance and security: The call to coordinate development and security suggests that regulatory compliance and risk management should be integral to your China strategy.
• Long-term commitment: The spirit of the Long March—perseverance and strategic patience—can serve as a reminder that success in China often requires a long-term perspective.

The event also featured a large gathering of approximately 3,000 participants, including representatives from various sectors, as reported by Xinhua. The presence of top leadership underscores the significance of the occasion.

Conclusion

For foreign founders, understanding the narratives and priorities highlighted at official events can provide context for the business environment. The 90th anniversary of the Long March victory serves as a reminder of the values and principles that shape China's policy direction. By staying attuned to these signals and adapting accordingly, foreign entrepreneurs can better position their companies for sustainable growth in China.

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