The 2026 Fortune Global 500 Forum was held in Guangzhou on September 16. The forum brought together executives from major global companies, investors and leading research institutions to discuss new drivers of growth.
This year's Fortune Global 500 companies generated US$43.1 trillion in combined revenue and US$3.39 trillion in net profit in 2025, both record highs. Amazon topped the ranking for the first time, while 38 high-tech companies made the list. The sector's profits increased by 21 percent, the highest growth rate among the 20 industries represented in the ranking.
AI moves from tool to workforce
Artificial intelligence was a core theme at the forum. Economists examined how geopolitical shifts, technological change and evolving consumer demand are reshaping the global economy.
Rob Chu, Vice President of Amazon, said AI is moving beyond its role as a tool.
"AI is no longer just a tool. It is becoming a digital employee of the future," he said. He added that AI could emerge as a major driver of productivity, working alongside people to create value for businesses.
Speakers also highlighted the need for appropriate regulation and safeguards as AI becomes increasingly embedded in business operations and consumer markets.
China as a growth and innovation base
For multinational companies, China remains both a major market and a testing ground for new products and technologies.
Haryono Lim, President and Chairman of BASF Greater China, said China accounts for nearly 14 percent of BASF's global sales and continues to offer significant room for growth.
BASF's integrated production site in Zhanjiang, Guangdong, he said, is helping the company produce more competitive and sustainable products, including 100-percent use of renewable energy at the site.
Isao Sekiguchi, Corporate Executive of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., said Nissan's cooperation with Chinese partners, including Huawei, CATL and Momenta, has helped the company develop vehicles that are competitive in both price and quality while bringing them to market faster.
He noted that, as a company witnessing China's rapid technological transformation, Nissan sees innovations developed in China can increasingly travel "from China to global markets."
Renee Wang, President of ZF China, described China as the company's "gym."
"If we succeed in training here, we will certainly be more competitive globally," she said. She added that supply chains built in and around China could also create opportunities for the company's operations in Europe and North America.
The discussions also covered the energy transition, life sciences, strategic industries, the spending power of younger consumers and the expansion of services.
Reporter | Dai Bosi
Photo | Fortune Global 500 Forum
