The much-anticipated 8th China-South Asia Expo is set to kick off on July 23 in Kunming City, the vibrant provincial capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province. Marking one of the region's premier economic and trade events, the expo promises to enhance trade cooperation and foster meaningful people-to-people exchanges between China and its South Asian and Southeast Asian neighbors.
This year, Pakistan shines as the country of honor, highlighting the deepening ties within the region. With over 2,000 enterprises registered, including representatives from all South Asian and Southeast Asian countries, the expo is buzzing with activity. Yang Mu, head of Yunnan's Department of Commerce, shared his excitement about the diverse participation.
The expo will feature 15 pavilions, including two dedicated to South Asian countries boasting approximately 800 booths. Attendees can explore showcases on architectural technology, green energy, culture and tourism, and modern agriculture, among other cutting-edge areas.
For coffee aficionados, there's a special treat! A dedicated pavilion for coffee products will debut for the first time. Yunnan, renowned for producing 95% of China's high-quality Arabica coffee, will host coffee companies from around the globe to display their products and discuss the latest in coffee cultivation, processing, and roasting.
China-South Asian 2023 Trade Volume Nears $200 Billion
The economic bond between China and South Asian countries continues to strengthen. According to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, the trade volume in 2023 is approaching a staggering $200 billion, a figure that has doubled since 2013. This growth underscores China's role as the largest trading partner for nations like Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Products such as rice from Pakistan, red tea from Sri Lanka, seafood from the Maldives, and pine nuts from Afghanistan are making significant inroads into the Chinese market, reflecting the diverse and dynamic trade relationships in the region.
Yunnan: China's Gateway to South and Southeast Asia
Liu Yong, the vice governor of Yunnan, emphasized the province's strategic role in the expo. \"Leveraging the platform provided by the expo, we will continue to align the Belt and Road Initiative with the development strategies of South Asian countries, further expanding exchanges and cooperation in modern industries, the digital economy, green energy, culture, education, tourism and agriculture,\" Liu stated.
In addition to the main expo, a supporting event on July 22 will gather officials, heads of business associations, scholars, and business executives from South Asian countries. They will engage in in-depth discussions on pivotal topics such as investment and trade cooperation, technological innovation, digital economy, energy development and utilization, and infrastructure construction.
With its dynamic showcases and strategic initiatives, the 8th China-South Asia Expo is set to be a pivotal event in boosting regional trade and fostering lasting partnerships. Don't miss out on the action in Kunming this July!
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