The eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE), taking place in Shanghai from November 5 to 10, 2025, has solidified its reputation as a premier platform for global trade amid an environment of increasing unilateralism and protectionist tendencies. According to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, the event has set new records for scale, with participation from 155 countries, regions, and international organisations, alongside 4,108 overseas exhibitors showcasing their products across more than 430,000 square metres of exhibition space. This expansive participation illustrates China’s strategic intent to foster openness and coordinated regional growth through international cooperation.
Experts commenting on the event have underscored the expo’s crucial role in providing a platform for commerce during a period marked by economic uncertainty and tense trade relations. Jacopo Vicini, deputy mayor for economic development of Florence, Italy, observed that the CIIE offers a vital venue for engagement while emphasising China’s sustained commitment to high-standard opening-up that extends beyond trade to cultural, innovation, and sustainability exchanges. Similarly, Igor Gavran, an economist from Bosnia, highlighted China’s contrasting approach to many Western countries by continuing to lower market entry barriers, thus sharing the fruits of its economic development with the wider world, and creating new opportunities for smaller economies.
Sergei Vergeichik from the Belarusian Institute for Strategic Research noted the growing stature of the CIIE in facilitating the entry of global products into the Chinese market, supporting both large and small enterprises worldwide. Alexis Bih, an economic specialist from Côte d'Ivoire, similarly pointed to China’s role as both a leading exporter and importer, which makes it central to streamlining global supply chains and reviving the global economy. He emphasised that through the CIIE, China demonstrates concrete actions toward building a more equitable and inclusive international trade order that benefits smaller and medium-sized economies.
The expo has also showcased practical measures to support development. For example, there is a dedicated exhibition area for products from least developed countries, designed to help these enterprises capitalise on China's zero-tariff policies, facilitating their access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets. This initiative complements the launch of the first-ever Global South sub-forum during the event, focusing on enhancing economic resilience and promoting sustainable agricultural development in those regions. Such efforts reflect China's broader global cooperation strategy, which, as highlighted by multiple analysts, balances economic opening with fairness and inclusivity.
American companies have maintained the largest exhibition area for the seventh consecutive year, illustrating continued interest and engagement with the Chinese market despite broader geo-economic tensions. The presence of 290 Fortune 500 and leading industry players also underscores the CIIE’s importance as a global economic platform.
In summary, the eighth CIIE serves not only as a marketplace but also as an indicator of China's steadfast role in driving economic globalisation toward a more open, balanced, and sustainable future. It is viewed by many international observers and participants as a beacon of hope amid challenges facing the global trade system, reinforcing China’s commitment to fostering collaboration and mutual benefit on the world stage.
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Source: Noah Wire Services