The newest edition of the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the world’s first national-level exposition dedicated to imports, opened on Tuesday in Shanghai.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 7th CIIE and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum.
The CIIE, a large-scale trade show hosted annually to attract foreign investment and promote imports, giving international companies a venue to showcase their innovations and build partnerships within China’s vast industrial ecosystem.
Rwanda Pavillon
Running from Nov. 5 to 10, the 7th CIIE has attracted 3,496 exhibitors including about a dozen from Rwanda and from 127 other countries and regions. It also sets a new record with 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders attending the event.
More than 400 new products, new technologies and new services are set to be unveiled during the expo, which experts believe is a strong indication of global companies’ confidence in the Chinese market and their commitment to further development in China despite a sluggish global economic recovery.
Rwanda’s Trade Minister Prudence Sebahinzi is leading the country’s delegation, with the private sector expected to showcase coffee, tea, honey and handcuffs, as well the “Visit Rwanda” national promotional campaign to encourage tourism.
Internal Chinese government data suggests an increasing interest of foreign investors in China’s economy due to improved business conditions, the country’s vast market, and recent regulatory changes.
China’s removal of restrictions on foreign shareholding in certain sectors and its commitment to free trade agreements have made it more attractive for multinational companies.
These changes allow foreign companies greater operational flexibility, which is particularly beneficial in China’s manufacturing sector, one of the first to open up to international investment and one of the most globally integrated.
The China International Import Expo (CIIE) has emerged as an important platform that enhances China’s appeal.
Foreign companies are expanding their presence in China, attracted by the nation’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, extensive supply chains, and research and development infrastructure. China is now a key market for many large industrial players, especially those involved in high-tech industries and engineering.
Multinationals see China as a crucial part of their global operations and view the country as a strategic hub for developing and launching new products and services tailored to local and regional needs.
This CIIE event, with its diverse representation across industries, reinforces China’s openness to foreign trade and investment, while providing companies with the opportunity to deepen relationships with Chinese industrial and technological partners.
China’s focus on high-quality economic development, with an emphasis on advanced technology and sustainable industries, aligns well with the goals of foreign companies aiming to establish or expand their Chinese operations.
By investing in China, these companies are not only able to increase market reach but also contribute to China’s development goals by bringing expertise, technological innovations, and high standards for production and efficiency.
The overall business environment in China, bolstered by economic reforms and strategic initiatives like the CIIE, signals a promising future for foreign investors seeking long-term growth in a dynamic, fast-growing market. 
