Irish Trade Counsellor: Hainan Free Trade Port and CICPE demonstrate China's commitment to opening-up

At the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Hainan, Joseph Keating, Trade Counsellor at the Embassy of Ireland, emphasized Ireland’s strong support for free and fair trade, highlighting the significance of the event and the Hainan Free Trade Port in promoting global trade and showcasing China's dedication to economic openness.

Keating noted that Ireland has participated in the Hainan Expo every year since its launch, making it the only international expo the country has consistently attended over the past five years. This year, Ireland’s presence at CICPE focuses on its major indigenous industry—food and drink. According to Keating, Irish food and drink exports are thriving, with €700 million worth of exports in 2024 alone, 67% of which are dairy-related products. He also highlighted Ireland’s strong pharmaceutical and medical device sector, with Irish companies currently operating in Boao, supplying hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

Keating praised the Hainan Free Trade Port’s unique policies and called the model “a good example of China opening up.” He said companies benefit from duty-free access, reduced taxation when adding value locally, and the ability to transfer goods to the Chinese mainland under favorable conditions—advantages that create new opportunities for international business.

Reaffirming Ireland’s position on trade, Keating said: “We believe in fair trade. We believe in multilateralism. We believe the WTO should be at the heart of global trade. We don’t see any benefit from tariffs.”