On September 16, the 2026 Fortune Global 500 Forum kicked off in Guangzhou under the theme “The New Growth Equation.” The forum brought together business leaders, investors, and academics from around the world to explore ways to achieve healthy, sustainable, and positive development amid a changing global landscape across the political, economic, and social spheres.
Chen Jiacai, Vice President of GAC Group and Chairman of the Board of GAC International, was invited to participate in a roundtable discussion on the evolving dynamics of competition and cooperation among global companies. Alongside representatives from Chinese and international companies, he exchanged views on the reshaping of cross-border operating rules amid geopolitical changes, as well as the overseas development of Chinese automakers.
GAC Group also served as the official authorized vehicle provider for the forum. The GAC M8 and AISTALAND GT7 provided transportation services for participating guests.
During the discussion, Chen explained GAC’s approach to globalization, saying: “Going global through products, going deeper through systems, and moving upward through brands.” Products and services provide the foundation for entering overseas markets, while localized systems and capabilities enable companies to achieve deeper integration into local markets. Strong brands, meanwhile, help earn the recognition and trust of local consumers.
Chen noted that Chinese automakers are entering an era of competition based on integrated systems, where success depends not only on products but also on organizational efficiency, marketing capabilities, supply chain responsiveness, and localized operations. From January to August this year, GAC-owned brands exported a total of 172,000 vehicles, representing a 136% year-on-year increase.
Chen identified six priorities for achieving sustainable international growth: clear strategic positioning, forward-looking planning, localized marketing and service capabilities, enhanced coordination across the entire organization, strict compliance, and effective cultural integration. Chen emphasized that compliance is not merely a basic requirement but an essential condition for long-term overseas operations.
In redefining the concept of “China Speed,” Chen said that international growth should not be measured by expansion alone, but should instead be based on healthy, high-quality, well-regulated, legally compliant, and sustainable operations. He emphasized that compliance, quality, and cultural integration are interconnected foundations for successful globalization.
GAC currently operates in 110 countries and regions around the world, supported by more than 746 sales and service outlets, seven overseas manufacturing facilities, and nine overseas spare-parts warehouses. Looking ahead, GAC will continue to deepen its localized operations, adhere to its standards for quality and compliance, and provide high-quality mobility products and services to users worldwide.