The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), the world’s first import-focused national exposition, commenced on Tuesday in Shanghai, drawing international attention to China’s expanding market opportunities.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered the keynote address at the opening ceremony and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum, highlighting China’s commitment to economic openness. Li noted that the country’s overall tariff rate has now dropped to 7.3%, surpassing its target of 9.8%. He also emphasized China’s progress in removing all manufacturing restrictions on the national negative list for foreign investments, a measure aimed at enhancing market accessibility.
Li affirmed China’s dedication to expanding access to various sectors, including telecommunications, the internet, education, culture, and healthcare, assuring that the fundamentals of China’s economy remain strong. He expressed confidence in meeting China’s economic targets for the year, signaling steady economic growth.
The 7th CIIE, running from Nov. 5 to 10, features approximately 3,500 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions, with a record-breaking participation of 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders. Over 400 new products, technologies, and services are set to be unveiled, underscoring global firms’ confidence in China’s market despite global economic uncertainties.
