First batch of exhibits arrive for China International Import Expo

The first batch of exhibits for the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) arrived at the venue in Shanghai on Tuesday, marking the acceleration of preparations for the November event.

The expo, the world's first import-themed national-level exhibition, is scheduled to take place from Nov 5 to 10 at Shanghai's National Exhibition and Convention Center.

Five participating companies brought a variety of products, including avocados from South Africa and a cutting-edge PET/CT molecular imaging system for nuclear medicine. These will be displayed in the food, automobiles, and medical equipment zones.

"We are showcasing one of the most advanced molecular imaging systems in nuclear medicine for the first time. This product features a comprehensive ecosystem solution for the early detection and precise treatment of Alzheimer's disease. This expo marks its global debut," said Zhong Luyin, Chief Communications Officer of GE Healthcare China, a company focused on improving hospital efficiency, enhancing diagnostics and promoting patient health through integrated solutions, services and data analytics.

"We believe the introduction of South African avocados will bring fresh flavors to Chinese avocado lovers, offering high-quality produce year-round," said Wang Na, market director at Dole China, one of the world's leading producers and distributors of fresh fruit.

The setup period for this year's CIIE will run from Oct 25 to Nov 4. Some booths began early installation on Oct 19, and by Nov 2, all major structures, including product displays, are expected to be in place.

Since the first edition in 2018, a total of 142 countries and international organizations have participated online and offline in the CIIE, including 117 countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and 26 least-developed countries.

To date, more than 70 countries and international organizations have confirmed their participation in this year's edition, exceeding the number from the previous session.

First batch of exhibits arrive for China International Import Expo

China's movie industry is increasingly deriving its earnings from broader consumer economy.

Released during the 2025 summer season, the film "Nobody" became China's highest-grossing two-dimensional animated film -- and its success went beyond theaters.

Through licensing and brand partnerships, the movie has generated 2.5 billion yuan (about 358.3 million U.S. dollars) in retail sales to consumers, with more than 800 licensed products on the market.

Ranging from plush toys to food and home goods, the movie-related merchandise can be purchased from over 3,000 online and offline outlets.

Meanwhile, souvenir stores are crowded at Shanghai Disneyland's Zootopia themed land, with hats, plush toys, and collectibles seeing steady demand from visitors.

"China's film industry is no longer defined by box office revenue alone. It has become a new growth engine that links and energizes multiple cultural sectors. At the heart of every successful film is strong storytelling. High-quality productions create cultural value, which in turn enhances the commercial value of intellectual property and opens up new consumption opportunities. I believe China's film industry delivered an outstanding performance in the past year," said Chen Xiaoda, vice dean of Shanghai Vancouver Film School.

Film IP fuels expansion of consumer market