The 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) opened on November 5, attracting a "CEO delegation" from multinational corporations who came to share in China's development and opening-up opportunities.

Roy Van Den Hurk, Global CEO of Theland, makes the long journey from New Zealand to attend CIIE almost every year. Despite China's economic slowdown, he remains optimistic about its market potential, citing strong population growth and economic vitality. Theland has benefited from CIIE's "spillover effects," with logistics clearance times for fresh milk imports reduced from 8 days to 3 days, enabling a "72-hour farm-to-table" supply chain.

Hu Kaicheng, Vice President of ConocoPhillips and President of China Operations, noted that CIIE provides a high-level platform for foreign companies to showcase strengths and deepen cooperation. ConocoPhillips, one of China's largest foreign investors in upstream oil and gas, has partnered with CNOOC on major projects like the Bohai Bay Penglai oilfield, with cumulative investments exceeding RMB 150 billion. The company also supplies about 10 million tons of LNG annually to China.

Yves Chapot, Managing Director and CFO of Michelin Group, described his first CIIE experience as "fascinating." He highlighted China's role as a key market and innovation hub, particularly in new energy vehicles and sustainability. Michelin has partnered with multiple Chinese EV brands on sustainable products.

Zhang Yan, Chairman and President of Brother China, brought executives from its Japanese headquarters to CIIE, reflecting the company's commitment to localized development in China. Similarly, MUJI Global President Akiyoshi Shimizu attributed its 12-month sales growth in China to localized product development and marketing strategies.

Schneider Electric EVP and China-East Asia President Yin Zheng emphasized CIIE's role as a global platform for innovation and cooperation. China has become Schneider's second-largest market and a key R&D base.

Varian Medical Systems Greater China President Qian Shenglai confirmed early registration for next year's CIIE, leveraging the event to showcase cancer treatment technologies and expand services in China.

This year's CIIE set records with over 367,000 sqm of exhibition space and 4,000+ exhibitors from 138 countries, including 290 Fortune 500 companies. U.S. companies maintained the largest exhibition area for the seventh consecutive year.

Beyond multinationals, government officials, international organizations, and SME delegations also participated. A U.S. soybean farmer noted improving trade conditions, with China accounting for 40% of exports. Zambia's trade delegation brought 40+ local SMEs and investors, aiming to strengthen bilateral cooperation. China-Africa trade hit record highs in 2024, with China remaining Africa's top trading partner for 16 years.

CIIE also expanded opportunities for least-developed countries, with 123 Belt and Road countries and 163 LDC exhibitors (up 23.5% YoY). The African products section grew by 80%.