World FZO unveils agenda and speakers for 11th World Congress in Hainan, China

Government

World FZO unveils agenda and speakers for 11th World Congress in Hainan, China

The World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) has announced the agenda and distinguished speakers for its 11th annual World Congress, set to take place from October 10–12, 2025, at the Hainan International Conference and Exhibition Centre, China. The event is being organized in partnership with the Hainan Provincial Bureau of International Economic Development (IEDB).

Themed “Zones: Gateways to Global Prosperity, Trade, and Sustainable Innovation”, the Congress is poised to be the largest and most influential gathering of its kind. It will bring together government leaders, investors, policymakers, and industry experts to address critical issues shaping the future of global trade and investment.

The Opening Ceremony will feature keynote addresses by Dr. Mohammed Alzarooni, Chairman of World FZO; Aiqing Fang, President of the China International Investment Promotion Council; Umberto de Pretto, Secretary-General of the International Road Union; and Rie Vejs-Kjeldgaard, Director of the Department of Sustainable Enterprises, Productivity.

Over three days, the Congress will host keynote speeches, panels, roundtables, case studies, and leadership sessions. Key topics will include the contribution of free zones to inclusive economic growth, building resilient ecosystems, the transformation of China’s Free Trade Ports with Hainan as a global model, and navigating evolving global trade pathways amid supply chain realignments.

Highlighting the growing significance of free zones, Dr. Mohammed Alzarooni remarked: “Free zones are more relevant to the world economy than ever. What began as trade enclaves have evolved into complex ecosystems that stimulate industrial diversification, create employment, nurture entrepreneurship, and integrate SMEs into global value chains. Today, more than 3,500 free zones worldwide generate over 90 million jobs and contribute nearly 20% of global trade. The Congress in Hainan will reaffirm their transformative role in a world shaped by technological disruption, shifting supply chains, and climate imperatives.”

The agenda will also feature milestone events, including the Executive Leadership Programme, a high-level Ministerial Meeting concluding with a communiqué outlining future strategies, the First China Comprehensive Free Trade Zone Development International Forum, and the BRICS SEZ Meeting. Additionally, World FZO will launch its Sustainable Zones Certification Programme, marking a major step in aligning free zones with global sustainability goals.

The Congress will offer an extensive exhibition area, exclusive networking opportunities, and a program of cultural and social events, further strengthening ties between global stakeholders.