On 9 February, the company’s Managing Director Qiu Zhaojun and Director Li Xiang paid a special visit to Michael Mainelli, Chair of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, former Lord Mayor of the City of London, and Chairman of Z/Yen Group. During the meeting, they formally invited this prominent British business leader to attend the China Import and Export Fair.
01 A High-Level Visit
Professor Michael Mainelli is a highly influential figure in London’s business community. He previously served as Lord Mayor of the City of London and currently chairs the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, an important organization representing thousands of businesses across London.
His extensive background spans finance, technology, and public policy, giving him deep insight into promoting international commercial cooperation.
02 A Multifaceted Role: A Key Bridge in the UK Business Community
Professor Michael Mainelli has built a career that spans multiple sectors, positioning him as a unique bridge connecting different business communities. In addition to serving as Chair of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry and former Lord Mayor of the City of London, he is also the founder and chairman of the well-known think tank Z/Yen Group.
His strong expertise in finance, technology, and leadership enables him to provide comprehensive support to London’s business community.
In 1994, he founded Z/Yen Group, which has since gained international recognition for producing influential global indices such as the Global Financial Centres Index, the Global Green Finance Index, and the Smart Centres Index.
Professor Mainelli also holds positions in several professional and academic institutions, including serving as an honorary professor and life fellow at Gresham College, as well as a fellow at King’s College London and Birkbeck, University of London.
03 Strategic Significance: Synergies Between the Canton Fair and London’s Business Community
The company’s visit to Professor Mainelli and the invitation for him to attend the Canton Fair reflect deeper strategic considerations. As Chair of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Professor Mainelli represents the broad interests of London’s business community and holds considerable influence in promoting international commercial cooperation.
The China Import and Export Fair, as one of China’s most important windows for foreign trade, has significant potential for collaboration with London, one of the world’s leading financial centres.
During his tenure as Lord Mayor of the City of London, Mainelli actively promoted initiatives such as digital transformation and climate action—areas that closely align with China’s current development priorities.
04 Looking Ahead: New Opportunities for China–UK Business Cooperation
Professor Michael Mainelli expressed his appreciation for the invitation and conveyed a positive outlook on strengthening business ties between China and the UK. He remarked:
“London is a centre of innovation and entrepreneurship. I look forward to working with partners to create an environment where businesses of all sizes can thrive.”
As a key platform connecting China with global markets, the China Import and Export Fair offers new opportunities for collaboration with London’s business community.
Amid evolving global economic dynamics, the potential for China–UK cooperation in areas such as fintech, green economy, and innovation-driven industries continues to grow.