China to open its doors with new import expo

By Lisa Riley

Published: 06 September, 2018

An international trade show backed by the Chinese government, which will focus on imported products, is poised to make its debut next month in Shanghai as the country prepares to “actively open its doors to the world”.

The China International Import Expo (CIIE) claims to be the first event solely focused on imported goods to take place in the country, and will have a dedicated wine and spirits section featuring producers from all over the world, including the UK.

The launch of the CIIE was a “big, big deal”, according to major Chinese wine importer Wajiu, because the initiative came from the government, led by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the communist party.

“The CIIE show is a significant move by the Chinese government as it signals firm support to trade liberalisation and economic globalisation”, said the business, which claims to be the country’s biggest wine importer by volume.

To date, the majority of goods featured at trade shows were produced in China, with the majority of events firmly focused on products “made in China”, said company representative Maria Borgolova.

The CIIE would further promote “a new round of high-level opening up, as well as a major action to proactively open the Chinese market to the world”, said minister of commerce Zhong Shan in a speech announcing the launch.

“This action showcases our confidence and determination of opening up, which has been highly praised and warmly received by the international society,” he added.

Keen to expand its UK portfolio, Wajiu has signed up to the event, alongside some of the company’s “key suppliers”, and is actively looking to take on a Scotch whisky, said Borgolova.

The CIIE will take place on November 5-10, 2018.

Printer friendly version