James X. Zhan
Dr. James Zhan Chairman of the Executive Board of the World Investment Conference (WAIPA). He also co-
chairs the Global Alliance of Special Economic Zones (GASEZ). He is the Co-founder and Chairman Emeritus of
the United Nations Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative, a global program in partnership with all major
stock exchanges worldwide. Dr. Zhan is also Chief Advisor to the Chairman of the World Free Zones
Organization, and serves on the fDi Editorial Advisory Board of the Financial Times.
Dr. Zhan is a senior fellow affiliated with the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House) and a
Senior Research Associate at Oxford University. He holds several advisory positions at leading academic
institutions, including Oxford University, Columbia University, Cornell University, and Fribourg University. He
has previously served as an academic advisor for Cambridge University and Geneva University, and he is a
professor and PhD supervisor at Nankai University.
Dr. Zhan was the founding co-chair of the Executive Board of the UN Family Business for Sustainable
Development Initiative, in collaboration with the Family Business Network International. Additionally, he was
co-founder of the World Investment for Development Alliance, which includes major international
organizations focused on investment issues. He has held various advisory roles in international organizations,
including Chief Strategic Advisor to the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) and
member of the Advisory Council of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). He was also a
member of the Global Agenda Councils for Advanced Manufacturing and for Trade and Investment at the
World Economic Forum.
From July 2023 to June 2024, Dr. Zhan served as the Chief Advisor to the Secretary-General at the United
Nations Trade and Development Agency (UNCTAD). From 2008 to 2023, he was the Senior Director of
Investment and Enterprise at UNCTAD, and the Chief Editor of the UN World Investment Report and the
Transnational Corporations journal.
During his tenure at the United Nations, Dr. Zhan provided strategic policy advice to heads of state, ministers,
and parliaments in over 100 developing and developed countries. He advised and facilitated cabinet strategic
meetings, as well as numerous global summits, including G20, BRICS, ACP, APEC, and ASEAN. He led the
formulation of the Investment Policy Framework for Sustainable Development (IPFSD), a global framework for
a new generation of investment strategies and policies used in over 150 countries and major regional
groupings. He established the World Investment Forum in 2008, leading it to become a prominent global
platform for investment stakeholders worldwide.
Dr. Zhan has published more than 100 journal articles and book chapters on investment, trade, technology,
and sustainable finance-related economic and legal issues. He has also led the preparation of over 300
publications and substantive reports for the United Nations. Dr. Zhan frequently appears in leading global
business and economic media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, Financial Times, and
Bloomberg.
Office: #1090, 1st Floor, 7w-b. Dubai Airport Free Zone PO BOX 371113 Dubai United Arab Emirates.
[email protected] | +971 4 204 5473 | +971 4 295 2945
August 14, 2025
H.E. Erkki Keldo
Minister of Economy and Industry
Estonia
Subject: Invitation to Speak at the Ministerial Roundtable at the World FZO World Congress
2025
Your Excellency,
It is with great respect that I extend to you an invitation to speak at the Ministerial Roundtable
to be held during the World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) 11th World Congress 2025,
taking place 10th – 12th October 2025 in Hainan, China.
Under the theme “Zones: Gateways to Global Prosperity, Trade, and Sustainable Innovation,”
this year’s Congress serves as the premier global platform for dialogue among policymakers,
economic and business leaders, and practitioners on the evolving role of free zones in shaping
inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready economies.
The Ministerial Roundtable, scheduled for 10 October at 13:00 hrs, will convene ministerial
officials from across the world to engage in high-level dialogue on advancing industrial and
development strategies through free zones and other special economic zones. The discussion will
focus on how tools such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and paperless trade systems can be
integrated into policy and practice to reduce transaction costs, expand market access, and boost
competitiveness.
By focusing on collaboration across sectors and borders, the roundtable aims to identify practical,
forward-looking strategies to harness digitalization while addressing risks related to
fragmentation, digital divides, and regulatory misalignment. Please find attached the concept
note on the Ministerial Roundtable.
Your presence at this important gathering would be of great significance. We would be honored
to have you join your esteemed peers in shaping the global agenda for free zones and sharing
your country’s leadership and experience in this vital area. In case you would like to take this
opportunity to hold bilateral meetings with your peer ministers and business executives
attending the congress, we would be happy to facilitate them.
Additional logistical information and program details will be shared through our Secretariat upon
your confirmation. Looking forward to hearing from you latest by August 25th to finalize proper
arrangements for your visit. Please feel free to contact us directly with any questions or
coordination needs.
Office: #1090, 1st Floor, 7w-b. Dubai Airport Free Zone Dubai United Arab Emirates.
[email protected] | +971 4 204 5473 | +971 4 295 2945
Ministerial Roundtable Program
Theme:
“Reimagining Trade: Digital Solutions in an Evolving World”
Introduction
The World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) 11th World Congress 2025 is scheduled to take
place from 10th – 12th October 2025 in Hainan, China. The key theme for this years Congress is
titled: “Zones: Gateways to Global Prosperity, Trade, and Sustainable Innovation”.
The Ministerial Roundtable, during the Congress is scheduled for 10 October at 13:00 hrs, and it
will convene ministerial officials from across the world to engage in high-level dialogue on
advancing industrial and development strategies through free zones and other special economic
zones. The Theme of the Ministerial Roundtable program is titled: “Reimagining Trade: Digital
Solutions in an Evolving World”, details of which are as follows:
Global trade stands at a critical juncture. The combined impact of accelerating digital
transformation, shifting geopolitical landscapes, and evolving supply chain models is reshaping the
foundations of international commerce. These forces bring forth complex challenges, ranging from
trade fragmentation and rising regulatory burdens to supply chain vulnerabilities. Yet, within this
complexity lies immense opportunities.
Digital technologies are unlocking new pathways for enhancing trade efficiency, resilience, and
inclusivity. As economies navigate this transition, free trade zones and other special economic
zones (SEZs) emerge as strategic platforms for piloting and scaling digital trade solutions. These
zones can act as testbeds for innovation, attracting digital investments, improving logistics
performance, and fostering inclusive growth models aligned with sustainable development goals.
In this context, the Ministerial Roundtable convenes senior policymakers, industry leaders, and
global experts to chart a path toward a digitally enabled trade future. The discussion will centre
on how tools such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and paperless trade systems can be
integrated into policy and practice to reduce transaction costs, expand market access, and boost
competitiveness.
By focusing on collaboration across sectors and borders, the roundtable aims to identify practical,
forward-looking strategies to harness digitalization while addressing risks related to fragmentation,
digital divides, and regulatory misalignment.
Key Issues for Ministerial Discussion
1. Addressing Global Trade Challenges:
How can digital innovation help buffer global trade from external shocks, such as
geopolitical tensions, climate disruptions, and post-pandemic instability? Ministers will
explore ways to build digital resilience into trade systems, ensuring continuity and
adaptability in volatile times.
2. Modernizing Free Trade Zones and Other SEZs:
What policies, infrastructure, and digital technologies are needed to position SEZs as
magnets for investment and hubs for digital trade? This session will consider how SEZs can
lead in piloting smart customs, digital permits, and blockchain-enabled supply chain
tracking.
3. Digital Trade Facilitation:
How can governments and the private sector work together to implement interoperable
digital systems—such as e-commerce platforms, customs automation, and smart logistics?
This topic will address scalability, integration, and public-private coordination.
4. Inclusive Digital Trade:
What targeted measures are needed to ensure that small and medium enterprises (SMEs),
women entrepreneurs, and developing economies can meaningfully participate in and
benefit from digital trade ecosystems? The discussion will highlight capacity-building,
digital skilling, and financial inclusion.
5. Regulatory Cooperation and Governance:
How can countries develop coherent frameworks for cross-border data flows,
cybersecurity, and digital standards? Ministers will examine approaches to regulatory
harmonization that uphold data privacy, consumer protection, and trust.
Expected Outcomes
The roundtable aims to achieve the following:
• Policy insights on integrating emerging digital tools into national and regional trade
strategies.
• Actionable recommendations for leveraging SEZs as enablers of digital innovation in trade.
• Commitment to developing interoperable digital trade frameworks that promote
collaboration, trust, and shared prosperity.
The session will conclude with a Ministerial Communique on the takeaway messages or a Call to
action—urging stakeholders to pursue coordinated, inclusive, and tech-enabled trade strategies
for a dynamic and interconnected global economy.
--
Saatja: "Dr Mohammed Ahmed Al Zarooni Chairman" <
[email protected]>
Saaja: "info - MKM" <
[email protected]>
Teema: Re: World FZO 11th World Congress - Ministerial Meeting Invite
Kuupäev: 2025-08-28 18:55
Tähelepanu! Tegemist on välisvõrgust saabunud kirjaga.
Tundmatu saatja korral palume linke ja faile mitte avada.
Your Excellency,
This is a kind reminder to confirm your participation in the Ministerial
Roundtable at the World Free Zones Organization 11th World Congress, taking
place 10–12 October 2025 in Hainan, China. You can find updated program and
speakers on <https://www.wfzoworldcongress.com/>
https://www.wfzoworldcongress.com.
The Roundtable will be held on 10 October at 13:00 hrs.
Please find attached the Agenda of the Ministerial meeting, the bio of the
Roundtable Moderator Mr. James Zhan, and the Ministerial Roundtable concept
note. We would be honored by your presence and look forward to your
confirmation at the earliest convenience.
With warm regards,
Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni
Chairman of the Board of Directors
World Free Zones Organization
On Fri, Aug 15, 2025 at 5:49 PM Dr Mohammed Ahmed Al Zarooni Chairman
<
[email protected] <mailto:
[email protected]> > wrote:
Your Excellency,
I Hope you are doing well,
We are pleased to share with you an invitation letter, on behalf of the
World Free Zones Organization and Hainan International Economic Development
Bureau, to attend the World FZO’s 11th World Congress, taking place from
10 – 12 October 2025.
We would also like to invite you to participate in the Ministerial Meeting
taking place on the first day of the congress, October 10, 2025. Please find
attached as well the concept note on the Ministerial Roundtable.
We would be grateful to receive your confirmation latest by 25 August 2025.
--
Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Alzarooni
Chairperson
<https://www.worldfzo.org/>
World Free Zones Organization
7W-B, 1st floor, office 1090,
Dubai Airport Free Zone,
PO Box 371113,
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Tel: +9714 204 5473
F: +9714 295 2945
E:
[email protected] <mailto:
[email protected]>
W: <http://www.worldfzo.org/> www.worldfzo.org
11th World FZO World Congress
Zones: Gateways to Global Prosperity, Trade, and Sustainable Innovation
Hainan International Conference and Exhibition Center, Hainan, China
10 - 12 October 2025
Ministerial Roundtable Program
“Reimagining Trade: Digital Solutions in an Evolving World”
Tentative Agenda
Friday October 10
08:45-10:00 Keynote Speakers
10:10-10:20 Official opening of the exhibition -VIP (Optional)
10:30-11:30 Official Opening Ceremony
12:00-12:30 Official Picture
12:30-13:30 Ministerial Lunch
13:30-15:30 Ministerial Meeting
15:30-16:00 Ministerial Networking Break
18:00-21:00 Welcome Reception
Saturday October 11
08:30-09:10 Opening Ceremony “Pathways to Prosperity: Zones and the Future of Trade”
09:30-10:30 “Redefining Connectivity in a Fragmented World/ Future of Logistics”
10:30-10:40 Official Launching of the World FZO and CIRD “Global Free Zones Research Institute”
20:00 -23:00 Gala Dinner
Office: #1090, 1st Floor, 7w-b. Dubai Airport Free Zone PO BOX 371113 Dubai United Arab Emirates.
[email protected] | +971 4 204 5473 | +971 4 295 2945