Themed "embrace intelligent technologies, empower trade in services", the fair covers a diverse range of sectors, including finance, culture and tourism, education, sports, supply chain, and healthcare services.
This year's event will host nearly 2,000 companies, including around 500 Fortune Global 500 firms and industry leaders, representing 27 of the world's top 30 services trade economies.
Australia is the guest country of honor, bringing the largest-ever delegation of 59 companies to the event. They will engage in a full range of activities including exhibitions, business talks, corporate matchmaking, and some side events.
To facilitate media coverage, a press center, repurposed from an old industrial workshop, has been officially opened in the Shougang Park.
"We have attracted over 3,200 reporters from more than 300 media organizations from home and abroad. We are committed to providing comprehensive support for media professionals, including information dissemination, workspaces, transportation, and catering services," said Zhang Zhimei, director of the Publicity and Information Department, Beijing International Trade in Services Center.
The press center is equipped with cutting-edge technology, featuring multiple smart robots to enhance the media experience.
"Our photography robots and water-delivery robots on the upper floor can perform over 100 tasks daily in the venue, serving more than 1,000 people. We also have specialized cleaning robots to ensure the venue remains hygienic," said Zhao Yongbo, chief marketing officer of Yunji Technology.
The event will run for five days -- the first three days designated for professional visitors and the last two for public access.
Since its inception in 2012, CIFTIS has brought together enterprises from around the world to share opportunities stemming from China's opening up and development of trade in services.
China's service trade fair to open in Beijing
