BEIJING — China is planning to expand market access, particularly in the services sector, offering new investment opportunities to foreign companies including those from the United States, senior Chinese trade negotiator Li Chenggang said Tuesday.
The announcement, made through a statement from the Ministry of Commerce, reflects Beijing’s ongoing efforts to strengthen economic engagement with foreign investors.
The statement comes as China continues to navigate complex economic relations with the United States. In recent years, both countries have sought to manage trade tensions while promoting business ties.
China’s 2020 Foreign Investment Law marked a major step toward improving protections for foreign investors and standardizing the regulatory environment.
The current emphasis on the services sector including finance, healthcare, logistics and professional services highlights Beijing’s intention to create opportunities for foreign firms in high value and knowledge based industries.
Chinese officials have framed the move as part of a broader effort to encourage foreign investment and facilitate economic growth.
Experts welcomed the announcement but urged caution. “Expanding market access is a positive signal for US companies,” said Emily Zhao, senior fellow at the Asia Trade Research Institute in Hong Kong.
“The key question will be how regulations are applied in practice and whether firms can operate on a level playing field.”
Daniel Peterson, managing partner at Global Strategy Advisors in Washington, noted, “While the message is encouraging, American companies will evaluate political and regulatory risks before making major investments. Stability and transparency will be critical.”
An official from China’s Ministry of Commerce, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said, “We aim to provide foreign investors with practical opportunities. Our focus is not just on opening access in theory, but on enabling real business engagement.”
Foreign investment in China’s non manufacturing sectors has been steadily increasing, according to government figures.
In the first half of 2025, foreign direct investment into services rose compared with the same period in 2024, though growth was uneven across different regions and sub sectors.
US investment in China has slowed in some industries due to regulatory and geopolitical challenges. However, China remains a top global destination for foreign capital, particularly in technology, finance, and professional services.
The latest announcement could provide new channels for US firms seeking entry into these markets. Industry experts in China say the announcement is welcomed but requires careful evaluation.
“Foreign companies have been seeking clarity on how to operate in China’s service sector,” said Laura Chen, managing partner at Sino Global Advisors in Shanghai. “The news gives clients hope, but it is essential to navigate local rules and market conditions carefully.”
A US based executive in financial services said, “Expanded market access would be significant for our strategy in Asia, but we need regulatory consistency and transparent enforcement to consider major investments.”
Local Chinese businesses also see potential benefits. A service sector entrepreneur in Guangzhou said, “Partnerships with US firms can bring expertise and innovation, which helps our growth. But collaboration requires mutual understanding of local laws and business culture.”
China’s phased approach to opening the services sector may continue gradually. Officials are likely to focus on sectors that can attract high value foreign investment while maintaining regulatory oversight.
Analysts predict that successful implementation could enhance economic cooperation between the US and China, encourage joint ventures, and support the development of domestic industries.
The initiative also comes amid ongoing global scrutiny of US China economic relations. Providing clear investment pathways and improving market access could serve as a stabilizing factor in bilateral trade relations, even as broader geopolitical challenges remain.
China’s plan to expand market access for US companies marks a significant step in the countries’ economic engagement. By targeting the services sector, Beijing aims to attract foreign capital while modernizing domestic industries.
While promising, the realization of these new investment opportunities will depend on regulatory transparency, consistent policy implementation, and the willingness of both Chinese and American firms to collaborate.