In a vibrant press conference held on September 11 by the Information Office of the State Council, Li Fei, the Chinese Vice Minister of Commerce, painted a colorful picture of the China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO). Celebrating its 20th year, Li gleefully touted the accumulated experience and the blossoming results that have made CAEXPO a cornerstone for economic and trade collaboration between China and ASEAN member states. Over two decades, the expo has become a major stage where Vietnamese G7 Coffee, Malaysian Musang King durians, Thai jasmine rice, and Laotian beer successfully captivated Chinese taste buds, and now eagerly look to future opportunities to deepen their market presence. The upcoming 21st CAEXPO promises to be an event like no other, promising higher quality and efficiency while fostering a closer, united China-ASEAN community.
So, what wonders await at the 21st CAEXPO? Let’s dive into the highlights and initiatives that will leave attendees both enlightened and entertained:
1. Infusing Fresh Content and Showcasing Developmental Triumphs
This year, an exciting new Pavilion of Strategic Emerging Industries will debut—don’t miss it! This pavilion will shine a spotlight on pioneering sectors like digital technology, green and low-carbon development, new energy, and intelligent connected vehicles. A new ASEAN High-tech Exhibition Zone will also steal the spotlight, featuring trailblazing achievements in massive health, biomedicine, new energy, and IT services from countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia.
2. Emphasizing Pragmatic Cooperation and Welcoming New Partners
In a groundbreaking move, CAEXPO will open its doors to Gulf countries for the very first time, with the United Arab Emirates gracing the event as a special partner. A delegation of U.A.E. buyers is all set to explore market opportunities. Adding more zest, the expo will also host members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) for the first time collectively, showcasing fantastic products from Kazakhstan and other member countries. What’s more, enterprises from RCEP member countries like Australia and Japan, as well as those participating in the Belt and Road Initiative such as Poland, Serbia, and Brazil, are ready to impress!
3. Enhancing Market Services and Expanding Platform Functions
The 21st edition of CAEXPO extends its duration to five days, adding a public open day to the mix. This extra day ensures that enterprises can engage more effectively with the market and lets the general public savor the tangible results of China-ASEAN cooperation. Moreover, the online CAEXPO sees a significant upgrade with a permanent exhibition hall and seamless coordination of online and offline activities. This means that the expo will keep its doors open virtually all year round, amplifying its service functions beyond the confines of the exhibition period.
As the countdown to the 21st CAEXPO begins, there’s a palpable sense of excitement in the air. With innovative pavilions, a roster of new global partners, and enhanced market services, the upcoming expo is set to be a dazzling celebration of cooperation and progress. Whether you’re a dedicated entrepreneur or a curious onlooker, the array of exhibitions and activities promises something for everyone. Make sure to mark your calendars – this is an event you won’t want to miss!
This CAEXPO sounds like just another way for China to dominate ASEAN markets. How’s that fair?
It’s called competition. ASEAN countries benefit from the exposure and trade opportunities.
Competition? More like China using its weight to monopolize smaller economies.
Capitalist87, you make it sound so benign. Remember, China’s agenda isn’t always so transparent.
Alice, your cynicism is showing. International trade needs platforms like CAEXPO to thrive. Stop being so one-sided.
I’m impressed by the focus on green and low-carbon development! Finally, some attention to sustainability.
Agreed! We need more events like this pushing eco-friendly tech.
Let’s hope it’s not just greenwashing. China’s track record on environmental issues is patchy at best.
True, Lynn, but we’ve got to start somewhere. Better some effort than none.
Lynn raises a good point. We need to remain vigilant about these promises actually turning into action.
China has made huge strides in green tech. This is a chance to showcase that progress.
Five days is too long for an expo. That’s just overkill.
Not really, Laura. More days mean more opportunities for businesses to connect and network.
It’s also a chance for the public to actually engage, which could be educational.
I guess I can see that, but it still feels like a lot.
If you have a global event, five days is honestly pretty standard.
Introducing Gulf countries like the UAE is a smart move. Diversifying partnerships = more stability in trade.
Or it’s just China trying to stretch its influence into the Gulf. This is geopolitical chess.
The ASEAN High-tech Exhibition Zone sounds awesome. Can’t wait to see the latest in biomedicine and IT services!
Really? This just sounds boring. I’d rather see the food stalls.
Why does no one talk about Vietnam’s G7 Coffee? It’s seriously underrated!
Agreed! They’ve got some amazing brews. Chinese market could use more diversity in coffee options.
The inclusion of SCO member countries is intriguing. Curious to see what Kazakhstan’s bringing to the table.
More countries = more confusion. How are they managing all these booths?
Pete, it’s called planning. They’ve been doing this for 20 years.
Permanent online exhibition halls are a game-changer. Can’t always attend in person.
Absolutely, Linda. This makes the expo accessible to a global audience.
Online? Nah, nothing beats being there in person. Online events lack the same energy.
I’m excited for the products from Brazil! We’ve got a lot to show off at CAEXPO!
The CAEXPO is a fantastic platform for regional cooperation. ASEAN and China need to leverage these opportunities.
Will there be any focus on education technology? That’s where we really need innovation.
I wonder how COVID-19 has affected participation. Are there any safety measures in place?
Good question, Ines. I’d expect stringent measures considering the international attendance.
This event is a goldmine for investors. New tech, new markets, what’s not to love?
But Ike, high reward comes with high risk. These kinds of events can sometimes overpromise.
Poland and Serbia at a China-ASEAN Expo? That blend of cultures must be fascinating!
The Belt and Road Initiative countries’ participation is just China pushing its agenda globally.
That’s a narrow view, Jack. Cross-border trade benefits everyone, not just China.
Greg, the problem is the imbalance. China’s projects can be financially predatory.