Beijing, April 20: During the recently concluded sixth China International Consumer Products Expo, Canada’s International Trade Minister, Maninder Sidhu, emphasized the ongoing focus on collaboration with China in sectors like automobiles, agriculture, and financial services. The expo, which took place on April 18, showcased numerous foreign exhibitors who shared their experiences and expressed confidence in future cooperation with China.
This year’s expo was particularly significant as it marked the first major exhibition following the full operation of the Hainan Free Trade Port and the beginning of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030). Notably, 65% of the exhibitors were international, a 20% increase from the previous year. A total of 277 new products were launched, doubling the number from last year. For the first time, a tourism retail brand incubation zone and a buyer service center were also established.
Many foreign companies are leveraging the trade facilitation opportunities offered by the free trade port. They are forming special teams for “global buying and selling,” which fosters a two-way flow of quality products from around the world and high-quality goods from China, making the Chinese market a significant opportunity globally.
As a global platform for showcasing and trading high-quality consumer goods, this year’s expo featured green and low-carbon products, as well as cutting-edge technologies like AI glasses and flying cars. This reflects a broader trend towards green and intelligent consumption. Additionally, the immersive and interactive “experience economy” has emerged as a new trend.
According to Tseng Rong, chief economist at the Hainan International Economic Development Bureau, this shift represents a blend of technological capability and emotional value. People are now seeking “novelty, uniqueness, and modernity,” prompting the market to tailor special experiences and services for different groups. This new form of consumption signifies a transition from simply “buying things” to “enjoying life.”
With the improvement in the living standards of the Chinese people, market expansion is also occurring naturally. In the first quarter of this year, retail sales of services grew by 5.5% compared to last year, surpassing the 3.3% increase in retail sales of goods during the same period. Notably, consumption in cultural tourism and travel has surged, becoming a major attraction.
Chen Qunshi, Business Development Director for North Asia at Swiss travel retail giant Avolta, noted that they brought products from 12 countries for Chinese consumers. He stated, “The Chinese market is becoming more mature and diverse, encouraging us to offer a wider range of products and a better shopping experience.”
Moreover, the rising demand for “new” products among Chinese consumers has spurred innovation among companies. Su Pahong, Vice President of Volkswagen Group China, mentioned that the company launches a new car in China approximately every two weeks. He expressed eagerness to strengthen cooperation with Chinese partners and participate in this wave of industrial transformation, driven by the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation.
Importantly, China has actively opened its doors, continuously reducing entry barriers and creating new pathways for foreign companies. From expanding comprehensive pilot programs to open the service sector to increasing the number of free trade zones to 23, China’s openness roadmap is becoming increasingly clear.
As spring unfolds, tourists are flocking to China. Meanwhile, the 139th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) commenced on April 15 in Guangzhou, Guangdong province. These expos and fairs, held consecutively, reflect China’s ongoing commitment to openness. Foreign-invested companies, playing a crucial role in China’s modernization, will work alongside China to build a better future.
(Source: China Media Group, Beijing)
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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