What Impact Has the CIIE Had on Shanghai, China and Global Trade?

The China International Import Expo (CIIE) is the world’s first dedicated import exhibition, set in the bustling business metropolis of Shanghai.

Though the current COVID-19 pandemic has put an end to many international events this year, CIIE is set to return, with hundreds of international businesses ready to showcase products for the Chinese market.

Despite its relatively short existence, CIIE has already had a significant impact on international business.

A launch pad for new products, technologies and services across the world

It has become synonymous with introducing new products, technologies and services to both China and global markets, with many enterprises choosing to debut their goods at the expo.

By presenting cutting-edge goods and services, CIIE has increasingly become the place for innovative products that satisfy consumers’ wish for a better life and enterprises’ demand for technological advances.

A platform driving fresh impetus into a sluggish global economy.

With the world struggling to recover from the fallout of the pandemic, this year’s CIIE is taking on a new role in revitalizing a sluggish global economy.

China, as one of the few countries set to record growth by the end of 2020, has as such become an increasingly important market, with companies such as French food giant Danone signing long-term deals to appear at the expo, as well as opening a science and research centre in the country.

But for Shanghai itself, hosting CIIE has also brought with it a number of tangible benefits.

An Expanded Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ)

One such benefit has been the increasing number of international companies establishing a presence in the mega-city.

Since the first Expo in 2018, officials from the glitzy financial district of Lujiazui – the epicentre Shanghai’s formidable skyline and the heart of its Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ) – have remained in close contact with many of the global exhibitors, offering tailored services to help them expand into the Chinese market.

So far, their efforts have seen 30 previous exhibitors set-up shop in Lujiazui, and at this year’s event, more than 40 companies based in Lujiazui will take part in the third CIIE, including eight global businesses making their debut.

Cementing Shanghai’s status as China’s Business Boom City

With CIIE bringing exhibitors and buyers together from across the world, the event has made Shanghai the international platform for global business. The metropolis now stands as a symbol of its country’s commitment to free trade, further opening-up, opportunity and understanding of the world’s largest consumer market.