Advertisement
US-China relations
Opinion
SCMP Editorial
SCMP Editorial

Editorial | Hot on heels of truce with US, import expo shows China’s resolve to open up

More than an exhibition, the expo is a statement of intent in a rapidly changing global landscape

Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
The National Exhibition and Convention Centre in Shanghai is the main venue for the 8th China International Import Expo, held from November 5 to 10. Photo: Xinhua
SCMP Editorial
Not long ago, the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) was approaching under the dark clouds of the US-China trade war. Then came last week’s truce, sealed at a summit between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump. What a difference a few days make, as reflected in the upbeat business sentiment and Premier Li Qiang’s rallying keynote address to hundreds of government officials, businessmen and merchants at the opening of the Shanghai expo on Wednesday. He reaffirmed China’s support for globalisation.

With the world economy slowing and international disputes intensifying, “we must all the more adhere to equal and mutually beneficial cooperation, embrace free markets and free trade, and resolve cross-border contradictions and problems through joint development,” he said. China, he stressed, was “willing to work with all parties” to ensure the stability of global industrial and supply chains. It would focus on “expanding domestic demand – especially consumption – and fully unleashing the internal demand potential of our large market of over 1.4 billion people”, Li added.

Company officials said Li visited some expo pavilions set up by US firms after the opening – sending a clear signal the Chinese market would be fully open to them amid the trade war de-escalation. So the expo is more than an exhibition but also a statement of intent in a rapidly changing global landscape. China wants to showcase its resolve to further open up.

Advertisement

This reflects the real significance of the expo since its launch under Xi’s leadership in 2018. It signalled China’s determination to grow its economy by becoming a consumption power as well as a trading giant.

More than a dozen US agricultural producers from US breadbasket regions are displaying their wares at a special pavilion, and several of the country’s multinationals were expected to set up booths, with some returning after long absences. It is also an opportunity for Hong Kong to promote local brands, but to ensure competitiveness, products must meet the highest standards.
Advertisement

While the Xi-Trump summit signals a potential thaw in relations, the expo provides a platform for dialogue and collaboration, showcasing China’s commitment to opening its markets and promoting free trade.

Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2x faster
1.25x
250 WPM
Slow
Average
Fast
1.25x