AI poster: China's import expo draws more Fortune Global 500 companies, industry leaders

(AI-assisted Creation)

The numbers of overseas companies and industry heavyweights attending the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) are both set to reach record highs, underscoring the enduring appeal of the world's largest import-themed trade fair.

The event is scheduled to open on Nov. 5 in Shanghai, east China, with more than 300 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders expected to participate, marking a record high. Additionally, more than 2,000 companies will be exhibiting here for the first time, according to organizers.

This year's expo is expected to attract a record 4,142 overseas exhibitors from 148 countries and regions. In total, 162 countries, regions and international organizations will participate, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

Since its launch in 2018, the trade fair has maintained strong appeal for international companies of all sizes, which have used the platform as a launchpad for new products in China and a fast track to enter the world's second-largest consumer market.

This year, over 480 exhibits are set to make their global, Asian or China debuts -- another record for the event.

The CIIE is a prominent example of China's efforts to open its market wider and facilitate entry of quality products from around the world. China expects the expanded imports will boost domestic demands and support its industrial upgrading.

The nation's imports reached 16.7 trillion yuan (about 2.48 trillion U.S. dollars) in the first nine months of this year, up 22.3 percent, the fastest growth since 2021.