Author: Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan, Sinologist – Diplomat – Advisor - Consultant,Founding Chair, Global Silk Route research Alliance.(E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com).
The ninth China International Import Expo (CIIE) will open in Shanghai from November 5 to 10, 2026, bringing together businesses, governments, investors and trade organisations from across the world. As the world's first national-level exhibition dedicated exclusively to imports, CIIE has become an important annual event in the international economic calendar. Its growing scale and global participation reflect China's commitment to expanding economic openness and sharing the opportunities of its vast domestic market.
The idea of establishing CIIE was announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping in May 2017 at the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. The first Expo was inaugurated in Shanghai on November 5, 2018, at the National Exhibition and Convention Center. It was jointly organised by China's Ministry of Commerce and the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, with support from international organisations, including the World Trade Organization, UNCTAD and UNIDO. At its inaugural edition, 172 countries, regions and international organisations participated, alongside more than 3,600 companies. It marked a significant step in the development of international trade exhibitions by creating a national platform specifically focused on imports.
The initiative carried an important message: China was not only seeking to expand its exports but also inviting the world to participate in its domestic market. Its objectives include promoting trade liberalisation, supporting economic globalisation, facilitating international procurement, attracting investment, encouraging technological exchange and strengthening people-to-people contacts. It also provides foreign companies with opportunities to introduce products, technologies and services to Chinese consumers and establish long-term business partnerships.
Over the years, CIIE has developed beyond a conventional trade exhibition. Its main components include the country exhibition, enterprise and business exhibition, Hongqiao International Economic Forum, supporting business activities and cultural exchanges. Together, these activities connect policymakers, manufacturers, investors, researchers and consumers. The Expo also offers a platform for discussing global economic challenges, trade rules, supply-chain resilience, sustainable development and international cooperation.
The achievements of previous editions demonstrate its expanding influence. The eighth CIIE, held in November 2025, attracted 4,108 enterprises from 138 countries and regions. It recorded intended one-year deals worth approximately US$83.49 billion, an increase of 4.4 percent over the previous edition. A total of 461 new products, technologies and services were introduced, including global and regional debuts. These figures illustrate the Expo's ability to generate commercial interest and connect international suppliers with Chinese buyers. However, intended deals represent business commitments and opportunities, rather than necessarily completed transactions.
Preparations for the ninth edition are already at an advanced stage. According to information released by Shanghai authorities in October, 4,142 overseas exhibitors from 162 countries, regions and international organisations are expected to participate. The total exhibition area will exceed 440,000 square meters for the first time. The country exhibition will feature 69 countries and international organisations, while more than 300 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders are expected to attend. More than 2,000 first-time exhibitors will join, and over 480 products, technologies and services are scheduled to make their global, Asian or Chinese debuts.
Preparations extend beyond exhibition space. Shanghai has introduced dedicated customs-clearance arrangements, with 123 service windows and channels to facilitate the arrival and handling of exhibits. Transport, accommodation, digital visitor services, multilingual assistance and payment facilities are also being strengthened. These arrangements reflect the importance attached to providing international exhibitors and visitors with an efficient and welcoming experience.
Expectations for CIIE 2026 are high. Advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, healthcare, green technologies, renewable energy, digital services, consumer products and modern agriculture are likely to attract considerable attention. The Expo is also expected to facilitate new partnerships, investment discussions, technology cooperation and access to China's consumer market. The Hongqiao International Economic Forum will provide an additional platform for exchanging views on trade, globalisation and sustainable economic development.
For Pakistan, CIIE offers valuable opportunities. Pakistani exporters can promote agricultural products, textiles, leather goods, sports equipment, surgical instruments, minerals, seafood and processed foods. Participation should not be limited to displaying products; it should involve serious business matchmaking, understanding Chinese standards, developing reliable distribution channels and building lasting partnerships. Pakistani enterprises could also explore cooperation with Chinese companies in food processing, agricultural technology, logistics, renewable energy and industrial modernisation. Government institutions, chambers of commerce and trade associations should help businesses prepare for these opportunities throughout the year.
Ultimately, CIIE's significance lies not simply in the number of exhibitors or the value of announced deals, but in its contribution to practical international cooperation. At a time when protectionist pressures, geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty are affecting global trade, platforms that encourage dialogue and mutually beneficial commercial engagement are particularly relevant.
As Shanghai welcomes the world for the ninth CIIE, the central message remains clear: China's development creates opportunities for international partners, while global participation enriches China's market and economic development. Turning these opportunities into lasting benefits will require trust, fair competition, quality products and sustained cooperation. CIIE 2026 can therefore serve not only as a major trade event but also as a meaningful contribution to a more open, connected and prosperous global economy.
(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY）