Amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) has emerged as a beacon of global cooperation. Held annually in Shanghai since 2018, the expo—proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping—showcases China’s commitment to open markets, attracting thousands of international businesses eager to tap into the world’s second-largest economy.
This year’s event spotlighted 297 Fortune 500 companies and secured over $78 billion in deals, reinforcing its role as a critical platform for trade innovation. Premier Li Qiang emphasized easing market access in sectors like telecoms and healthcare, signaling opportunities for global entrepreneurs. \"China is not just a market—it’s a launchpad for global growth,\" he remarked during pre-expo talks.
Since its launch, CIIE has generated $420 billion in transactions, with SMEs seeing a 40% surge in participation this year. The expo also champions inclusivity, offering smaller economies from Africa, Latin America, and Asia a foothold in global trade.
With 152 countries and regions represented—including France, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia as 'countries of honor'—CIIE 2024 proves trade can thrive even in turbulent times. As one exhibitor put it: \"This isn’t just an expo—it’s a movement.\"
