More than 3,500 exhibitors from around the world have gathered in Shanghai for the seventh Chinese International Import Expo (CIIE), which began on Tuesday, November 5. Touted as the world’s biggest import-oriented event, the annual business and country exhibition attracted participants from more than 120 countries. ALSO READ: Rwandan exporters out to seek opportunities at mega Chinese expo More than 10 Rwandan companies are participating in the six-day exhibition taking place at the National Exhibition and Convention Center until November 10. Products showcased by Rwandan companies include coffee, tea, chili, honey, and handcrafts. The exhibition was opened by Chinese Premier Li Qiang who was joined by leaders from across the world, including Rwanda’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Prudence Sebahizi. Premier Li said the exhibition is a platform for China and the world to foster “win-win cooperation” in economic and trade matters. “Hosting the CIIE is an important step in the opening up of China,” said the premier. ALSO READ: Why China elevated Rwanda to comprehensive strategic partner Li said that China, the world’s second biggest economy, remains committed to economic multilateralism and would continue to “support developing countries to better access the dividends of globalisation.” “We have put forward 10 partnership actions for China and Africa to jointly advance modernisation and further synergise high-quality Belt and Road cooperation with the development strategies of other countries in an effort to ensure that the gains of development can be shared by people from all countries and regions,” he said. Li noted that the world was undergoing “profound and accelerated transformation,” which manifests in multiple challenges to trade and economic development. He said trade and economic cooperation, rather than protectionism, would be the solution to the current issues. ALSO READ: Rwanda, China signagreement to boost developmentCooperation The Chinese International Import Expo, which was initiated in 2018, promotes innovation in various areas, including manufacturing and services. The 2024 CIIE focuses on four industries, namely the digital economy, green and low carbon development, life sciences, and manufacturing technologies. More than 400 new products will be displayed in the exhibition, including Rwandan honey and six new Rwandan coffee brands. Rwanda’s exports to China have grown from $39 million in 2018 to $131 million, according to latest figures from the Rwandan embassy in Beijing. China has topped the list of Rwanda’s major sources of foreign direct investment (FDI) over the past five years.
