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CIIE 2025: A Global Hub for Trade and Innovation

The highly anticipated China International Import Expo (CIIE) returned to Shanghai from November 5 to 10, 2025, solidifying its reputation as the world's business capital. Known for its unique "Four-Leaf Clover" design, the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) once again played host to a multitude of exhibitors who gathered to explore new opportunities in global markets. This year's edition welcomed six guest countries of honor: Sweden, UAE, Colombia, Nigeria, Thailand, and Georgia. Each of these nations represented diverse cultures and industries, collectively demonstrating the event's commitment to fostering economic growth through innovation and inclusion.

Promoting Innovation and Inclusion

A standout feature of CIIE 2025 was the addition of new exhibition sections aimed at enhancing innovation and expanding participation. Notably, a dedicated zone was created for Asian and African nations, spotlighting products from countries with diplomatic ties to China. This initiative offered preferential access to the Chinese market and implemented zero-tariff entry policies, significantly benefiting smaller exporters who were looking for a foothold in one of the world's largest consumer economies.

With over 4,108 exhibitors from more than 155 countries and regions, CIIE spanned an impressive 430,000 square meters of exhibition space. The participation included 67 countries and organizations, highlighting a significant representation from Africa. Attendees had the chance to explore products such as soybeans from Nigeria, pineapples from Benin, and coffee from Burundi, showcasing the rich diversity and quality of African goods available to international markets.

Insights and Global Cooperation

Alongside the expo, the Hongqiao International Economic Forum (HQF) presented a platform for global thought leaders to enhance cooperation and exchange insights on the themes of openness and innovation. As part of its agenda, the Forum released the World Openness Report 2025 alongside the latest World Openness Index, delivering an authoritative analysis of global economic integration and China's efforts to promote high-level opening-up policies. In a historic moment for the report, a Nobel Prize-winning economist contributed a special chapter, enriching its findings with a broad international perspective.

Under the banner of "Opening-up for New Opportunities, Collaborating for a Shared Future," the Forum hosted 25 parallel sessions that delved into pressing topics, including revitalizing multilateral cooperation, digital innovation, green development, and the pursuit of a more open economic landscape.

The eighth installment of CIIE was deemed a resounding success, reaffirming its global mission of fostering connections between markets, inspiring entrepreneurial innovation, and advancing inclusive economic growth. As exhibitors and visitors from around the globe converged in Shanghai, they turned opportunities into tangible business realities, thus further enhancing the global trading ecosystem.

For those seeking further information and updates about the event, visit the official website of the China International Import Expo (CIIE). With the achievements of CIIE 2025, the stage is set for continuing to build bridges across global markets and nurturing future collaborations.