A Reflection on Chicago-China Partnerships

As the Lunar New Year approaches, beginning on January 29, 2025, we welcome the Year of the Snake with optimism and gratitude for the enduring partnerships between Chicago and China.

Rooted in traits like intelligence, adaptability, and wisdom, the Snake offers an opportunity to reflect on Chicago’s role as a bridge for collaboration, innovation, and shared prosperity with our Chinese counterparts.

From thriving sister-city relationships to strategic investments and cultural exchanges, the bonds we’ve built reflect our shared commitment to fostering economic growth, global cooperation, and vibrant communities.

Chicago-China Partnerships: A Decade of Progress and Prosperity

Chicago’s Global Friendship with China

• Two Sister Cities: Chicago has a unique distinction with China. It maintains sister city relationships with?Shanghai?and?Shenyang and will?celebrate?40 years of partnership?in 2025.
• Top Trading Partner: China remains Chicago’s largest trading partner, with $77.9 billion USD in trade in 2023—a 78.7% increase over the past decade.
• Business Connections: Over 150 Mainland Chinese companies operate in Chicago, including industry leaders like Wanxiang, CRRC, and Bank of China.

The Gateway Cities Agreement: A 12-Year Milestone

The Gateway Cities Agreement, signed in 2013, solidified Chicago’s role as a key hub for Chinese investment. This was the first time a U.S. city entered into such an agreement with the People’s Republic of China. The deal also enhanced Chicago’s reputation as a prime destination for tourism, business, and transportation, and involved the cities of Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Qingdao, Shenyang, Hangzhou, Wuhan, and Chengdu.

2024 Highlights of Strengthening Connections

• CRRC Sifang America is a rail vehicle manufacturer, that built a Chicago facility and is reviving local railcar production for CTA after 50 years. Employing 200+ people, CRRC sources 70% of components from U.S. manufacturers. During a recent visit, Deputy Mayor Kenya Merritt and World Business Chicago leadership toured the facility and met with CRRC leadership to discuss their progress and post-pandemic challenges. Deputy Mayor Merritt praised CRRC’s community contributions and reaffirmed Chicago’s support for Chinese investment.

“WBC has been a great partner, helping CRRC grow our civic engagement and navigate challenges. We look forward to deepening this collaboration in the year ahead.” — Yiguang Geng, President, CRRC Sifang America

• In December, Mr. Minqiang Liu, Director-General of the China Investment Promotion Agency (CIPA), led a delegation of 20 civic and business leaders to Chicago. The visit fostered dialogue with the local business community, explored collaboration and investment opportunities, and strengthened the friendly cooperation established under the 2013 Gateway Cities Agreement between Chicago and China. Over 50 companies and organizations joined us for a roundtable meeting at Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP to welcome this distinguished delegation. The group also had a chance to tour Portal Innovations, giving them a glimpse into Chicago’s cutting-edge biotech ecosystem. CIPA has been an invaluable partner in maintaining and growing China-Chicago business connections.?

“China is committed to institutional openness and fostering a business environment that drives economic cooperation. In the coming year, we aim to deepen collaboration with WBC to advance trade and investment.” — Minqiang Liu, Director-General, CIPA

• CGCC 8th Annual Gala?WBC partnered with the?China General Chamber of Commerce?for its 8th Annual Gala, which hosted nearly?1,000 leaders?in business and government. Key announcements included a new?CPS-Wanxiang partnership, which offers students opportunities to study abroad in China and explore its language, culture, and history. Special thanks to?Pin Ni, Chairman of CGCC Chicago and WBC Board Member, for his leadership in strengthening U.S.-China ties.

Supporting Global Business Growth

Chicago remains a premier destination for international businesses, offering critical resources and partnerships. Two recent success stories underscore this:

• Chinese Food Company – North American HQ in Chicago: After the pandemic, this company selected Chicago as its headquarters. When facing issues with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, World Business Chicago facilitated direct discussions with CBP. This support helped the company navigate the complexities, demonstrating WBC’s ability to bridge global businesses with critical regulatory resources.
• Chinese Manufacturing Company – Longstanding Chicago Operations: With nearly a decade in Chicago, this company faced cost increases, tariff restrictions, and workforce retention challenges during the pandemic. World Business Chicago worked with the City’s Washington, D.C. team to address trade barriers and partnered with local agencies to solve talent needs. The Company's ongoing success in Chicago is a direct reflection of our shared commitment to problem-solving and fostering a strong local economy.

This edition of Business Pulse was co-authored by World Business Chicago leaders, Karla Ruth Orozco Toledano , Kyle T. Schulz , and Yiyun (Tanya) Tan , powered by the incredible work of the WBC Research Center team, honoring Chicago’s global partnerships, economic vibrancy, and welcoming business environment.

Interested in learning more about investing in Chicago, whether you're a domestic or foreign company? DM us, and we'll be in touch to explore how Chicago can support your growth.

Happy Lunar New Year!

As we embrace the Year of the Snake, we trust that its attributes of wisdom, strategy, and adaptability will guide us in further strengthening Chicago’s position as a global leader. Here’s to continued prosperity, partnership, and progress in 2025 and beyond.