The 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) has once again highlighted its role as a major platform for promoting inclusive global trade, particularly for countries from the Global South, including Belt and Road partners and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). This year’s event demonstrated a significant increase in participation from emerging economies, signaling expanding trade opportunities in the Chinese market.
According to official data, 163 companies from 37 LDCs took part in the expo, marking a 23.5% increase compared to last year. African participation surged even more dramatically, with the number of exhibitors rising by 80%, while Belt and Road participants grew by 23.1%, reflecting China’s strengthened engagement with developing nations.
The growth in participation comes in the wake of China’s zero-tariff policy for all LDCs with established diplomatic relations, effective from December 2024. This policy enables exhibitors from LDCs to access one of the world’s largest consumer markets directly. To further support these countries, the Chinese government offered free exhibition booths, logistics subsidies, and green customs channels, easing market entry and boosting export potential.
Small and medium-sized producers from Africa expressed optimism about the opportunities presented by CIIE. Tanzanian avocado exporter Juliana Mwaliyeplo described the expo as “a bridge to the international market,” emphasizing how China’s massive demand and reliable partnerships could transform the prospects for African producers. Exhibitors showcased a wide range of high-quality products, including Zambian honey, Burundi coffee, and Zimbabwean essential oils, attracting strong attention from Chinese buyers. Ethiopia’s coffee exports to China, for instance, have grown from just a few containers annually to over 100 containers or 2,000 tonnes per year, illustrating the tangible impact of expanded trade access.
Participation from Belt and Road countries also strengthened this year. Companies from Brazil, Thailand, Malaysia, and Peru introduced signature products, while Colombia, the guest of honor and a new Belt and Road member, quadrupled its number of exhibitors, offering avocados, chocolate, and handcrafted goods to Chinese buyers.
Officials and industry observers view CIIE as a vital platform for South-South cooperation, demonstrating China’s growing role in promoting fair and inclusive access to global markets. By facilitating connections between developing nations and the Chinese consumer base, the expo is helping smaller economies expand exports, enhance economic resilience, and integrate more fully into the global trading system.
