From November 5 to 10, the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) was held in Shanghai. As a key platform for China's high-level opening-up, the expo gathered global innovations and cutting-edge ideas.
In the trade-in-services sector, foreign banks stood out as prominent participants. Many "regular attendees" reaffirmed their commitment to China's market, demonstrating confidence in shared development opportunities.
**Building Bridges for Mutual Benefit** Standard Chartered, an eight-year participant, showcased its theme "Connecting for New Opportunities" through exhibits on cross-border business support, sustainable finance, and digital solutions. "Despite global trade uncertainties, China's steady growth and openness boost international investment confidence," said Bill Winters, Group CEO of Standard Chartered.
HSBC, another long-term participant, highlighted its global network and financial solutions at its hexagonal-themed booth. David Wang, CEO of HSBC China, noted that the expo coincides with China's 15th Five-Year Plan period, offering multinationals vast opportunities in technology and services.
Nanyang Commercial Bank (China) [NCB China] Business Director Zhang Zhengjie described CIIE as both a "window" for China's openness and a "bridge" for global trade, particularly benefiting least-developed countries through dedicated exhibition zones.
**From Scale to Substance** Zhang observed CIIE's evolution from focusing on exhibition scale to emphasizing "soft power," including streamlined customs services and growing "exhibitor-to-investor" transitions. Topics like AI and green consumption dominated discussions, aligning with global trends.
Marking 35 years of China-Singapore ties, DBS Bank spotlighted fintech, cross-border finance, and wealth management. "CIIE has become fertile ground for global innovation," said Chen Peiying, Head of Global Transaction Services at DBS China, noting 18 Singaporean debut exhibitors this year.
**Tapping Potential, Sharing Opportunities** Standard Chartered China CEO Julia Lu identified three trends driving China's wealth management growth: expanding affluent demographics, diversified investment demands (including ESG), and generational wealth transfers.
DBS is doubling down on tech, advanced manufacturing, and green sectors. Chen revealed plans to enhance cross-border RMB services, leveraging its role as a direct participant in China's CIPS system, which saw 30% YoY transaction growth in 2024.
NCB China will strengthen cross-border RMB services while introducing digital wealth tools like the Greater Bay Area "Wealth Management Connect" to mainland clients. It also pledged green finance solutions for low-carbon projects.
**Embracing Cross-Border E-Commerce** Foreign banks are adapting to challenges posed by fragmented cross-border e-commerce payments. DBS launched integrated platform banking in Singapore, while Standard Chartered upgraded its SME "Go Global" service with smarter cross-border solutions. "Chinese SMEs with technological edges are actively expanding overseas," said Li Feng, Deputy CEO of Standard Chartered China, highlighting services addressing FX risks and funding gaps.
The expo underscored foreign banks' strategic bets on China's openness, with financial innovations tailored to cross-border commerce and RMB internationalization.