Beijing ranked sixth in the 2025 International Exchange Centers Index released Wednesday, citing improvements in the city's business environment, tourism recovery, technology advances and connectivity.

Within the ranking's three subcategories, Beijing's attractiveness increased to 19th place, primarily due to a surge in inbound tourists. Its influence and connectivity also remained robust, ranking second and 15th, respectively.

The index emphasized that Beijing's main advantage as an international exchange center is its tech and innovation sectors, especially in artificial intelligence, the life sciences and new materials, which attract top global tech talent.

London topped the rankings, followed by Paris, New York, Seoul and Singapore. Hong Kong ranked seventh, Shanghai eighth, Tokyo ninth, with San Francisco and Bangkok tied for 10th.

The International Exchange Centers Index measures how well cities attract global resources, facilitate international exchanges and promote cultural interactions. It aims to guide government officials and policymakers in developing urban strategies.

The report was jointly compiled by the China Institute for Development Planning of Tsinghua University and Deloitte China. While maintaining its focus on attractiveness, influence and connectivity, this year's index expanded to 50 participating cities and included more developing countries.