Shanghai, China – March 5, 2025
Wu Lei, Founder of ARCHINA (Architectural China), and Ms. Wei Wenmei, 2025 Chair of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Shanghai Chapter, jointly signed the 2025 Strategic Cooperation Memorandum in Shanghai yesterday, formalizing a deepened partnership in media communication, industry events, and resource sharing. This collaboration aims to foster cross-border knowledge exchange and innovative practices between Chinese and American architectural sectors, injecting fresh vitality into the global design ecosystem.

This marks the second strategic partnership between the two parties following their initial agreement in 2024.

Core Areas of Collaboration

Under the memorandum, the two organizations will focus on:

1. In-depth media resource integration

2. Co-creation of international events

3. Collaborative content development and dissemination

Leadership Perspectives: Empowering the Industry Through 

PartnershipWu Lei, Founder of ARCHINA, stated, “This collaboration is a significant milestone in consolidating Sino-U.S. architectural resources. As a globally renowned institute, AIA’s expertise and international vision will bring invaluable insights to China’s design community. Through media-institution synergy, we aim to build a more open knowledge-sharing platform to advance low-carbon design, smart cities, and other critical initiatives.”

A veteran with nearly 25 years in architectural media, Wu Lei is also the initiator of the World Architecture Technology Innovation Conference (WATIC). He has long championed sustainable development in the industry and serves as a brand consultant for leading design firms worldwide.

Ms. Wei Wenmei, Chair of AIA Shanghai, emphasized, “ARCHINA is a powerhouse in China’s architectural media landscape. This partnership not only provides AIA members with a platform to showcase their work in China but also facilitates the convergence of Chinese and American design philosophies. We believe such cross-border collaboration will pioneer new pathways for industry innovation.”

As Chair of the AIA Shanghai 2025 Urban Renewal Committee, Wei founded Design Better World Limited (DBW) in 2023. The emerging architecture firm combines global perspectives with localized expertise to shape a better world through design.

Future Vision: Long-term Mechanisms for Industry TransformationThe memorandum remains effective until December 31, 2025, with both parties committed to exploring extended cooperation through annual evaluations. Plans include expanding collaborative fields progressively.

About the Partners

AIA Shanghai Chapter

Established in 2012, the AIA Shanghai Chapter serves AIA members practicing in Shanghai and other Chinese cities. Upholding the institute’s 150-year legacy, it advocates for high standards in design, education, and professional practice while bridging connections between U.S.-trained architects, local professionals, and government bodies in China.

Key Initiatives:

• Facilitate understanding of Sino-U.S. professional practice differences

• Promote international recognition of U.S. architectural credentials

• Strengthen communication between AIA and its China-based members

ARCHINA

Founded in 2003, ARCHINA is China’s premier architectural media and resource integration platform, dedicated to fostering innovation across urban development, real estate, architecture, and culture.

By the Numbers:

• 22 years of industry expertise

• 2 million vertical industry followers

• 60+ official communities

• 5,000+ partner organizations

• 20 million monthly page views (global reach across 20 regions)

• 1,000+ industry events hosted

• 500+ exclusive interviews with renowned architects and executives

In 2025, ARCHINA will continue empowering design brands through media-driven influence, catalyzing industry possibilities, and building a sustainable ecosystem where "brand power" and innovation thrive.