Businesses from the Pacific island nation of Fiji view the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai as a significant opportunity to expand market access and gain greater market share of the Chinese market through showcasing their best and most sought-after products.
The expo, which closed on Monday after a six-day run, has set a new record in terms of its scale, with the participation of over 4,100 exhibitors from 155 countries, regions, and international organizations.
Launched in 2018 as the world's first national-level import-themed expo, the CIIE is seen as a reflection of China's commitment to opening its market wider and sharing its growth opportunities with the world.
A few months ago, Fiji began preparing for the CIIE as a "full attendance" participant, and this year, the country specifically invited several international students studying in China to join in the preparations. Young Fijian Apenisa was fortunate to be among them.
Although it was his first time at the CIIE, Apenisa seemed like a seasoned veteran of the event. He spoke confidently about the products, making it hard to believe that he had only been studying Chinese for a year.
"I have been in China for a year. I like Chinese cuisine. I enjoy Chinese history. I like the Chinese people," he said in Chinese.
Apenisa was able to come to China through a dedicated program at Liaocheng University in east China's Shandong Province for students from Pacific Island countries.
"They are studying in universities and coming here. The CIIE gives them also an opportunity to go into business later," said Amelia Cobona, the second secretary of the Fijian Embassy in China.
In previous editions, Fiji has showcased a variety of signature products, with expanded Chinese market access translating into higher revenues for local enterprises. This year, the new product displays and the participation of international students, who serve as a cultural bridge between the two countries, have injected new energy into the Fijian booth.
"Now there are about 126 customers that came today from Fiji to bring our products here in China. It provides a lot of opportunities for especially the Fijian products to be broadcasted worldwide in bigger markets," said Apenisa.
"It's good that the products are here because here in CIIE, it creates the visibility. So you actually see the people coming to the booth, whether you are big or you are small. The Chinese government through CIIE has offered countries like ours that wonderful opportunity to come here, participate in person, and this is the place to be," Cobona said.
Fiji businesses seek greater market access via China's import expo
