Over 152 countries and regions, alongside 297 Fortune 500 giants, are packing the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) this year – a defiant 🤝 celebration of globalization as global tensions simmer. Chinese Premier Li Qiang kicked off the event with a call to combat protectionism, declaring China’s commitment to 'high-standard opening-up' as key to global prosperity.
Since its launch, the CIIE has racked up $424 billion in deals and spotlighted 2,400+ innovations annually. U.S. firms like Ford and Tesla joined last year’s record-breaking American delegation, signaling a corporate shift away from Washington’s trade restrictions. 'Participating here is non-negotiable,' said one CEO, calling China’s market 'too big to ignore.' 🚀
This year’s expo features an Innovation Incubation zone for startups, leveling the playing field for SMEs from emerging economies. Argentina, Mexico, and the Czech Republic also sent reps to a pre-event investment conference, betting on China’s consumer boom.
Beyond trade, the CIIE bridges cultures 🌏. Analysts note it’s not just about selling products – it’s a 'soft power moment' fostering global unity amid Middle East conflicts and economic headwinds. As one attendee put it: 'This is where the world comes to collaborate, not clash.'
