The China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2024, scheduled to be held in Shanghai from November 5 to 10, is set to feature a dedicated area for new materials for the first time, according to Sun Chenghai, deputy director-general of the CIIE Bureau. This announcement was made during a news briefing on July 24, three days ahead of the 100-day countdown to the event.
New Exhibits and Innovations
This year’s expo will highlight future mobility with a focus on unmanned driving, the low-altitude economy, and new energy storage for automobiles. Additionally, a health and elderly care zone will present cutting-edge technologies and products within the "silver economy," catering to the aging population and their needs.
Participation and Support
Over 150 companies have committed to the expo for seven consecutive years, showcasing their consistent trust and interest in the event. New participants from Fortune 500 companies, such as Mitsubishi Corporation and NTT, will join this year. Additionally, industry leaders in new materials and transportation sectors like Nippon Paint, Invista, Aptiv, and Alstom are set to make their debut, bringing innovative solutions and products to the expo.
Special attention will be given to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These enterprises will be organized to participate in key procurement events to enhance communication with potential buyers. The special zone for African agricultural products will be expanded and upgraded, providing better exposure and showcasing unique products from the continent.
Innovation and Incubation
The innovation incubation section will focus on the digital economy, green technologies, life sciences, and manufacturing technology. Tech startups, high-quality incubators, innovation centers, makerspaces, and accelerators from overseas will be invited, providing significant opportunities for small and micro-sized enterprises to showcase their innovations and gain global exposure.
Entry and Exit Facilitation
Shanghai has introduced a comprehensive package of measures to facilitate the entry and exit processes for CIIE exhibitors and guests. This includes streamlined procedures to issue multi-entry visas for foreigners attending the expo. Additionally, convenient services will be provided for handling residence and stay permits for visa-free foreign exhibitors and guests who need to stay beyond the visa-free period.
For exhibitors and guests needing to extend their visa period or those interested in working or starting a business in Shanghai, the city will offer convenient document handling. A service station for foreigners will be set up at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), and the 12367 hotline will be opened for the CIIE, providing both online and offline consultation services.
Building on this, a "one-stop" service for entry and exit document processing will be introduced. For foreign exhibitors and guests applying for an extension of their stay permits, the service will provide on-site acceptance, simultaneous review, and immediate issuance.
Shanghai will also offer a green passage for invited foreign exhibitors and guests. For those who haven't obtained visas, the application can be filed by the individuals or their inviters, either in advance or on-site with the invitation letter and related documents, which can be processed on-site.
A Promising Future
The CIIE continues to be a vital platform for international business and cultural exchange, driving innovation and economic growth. With its expanding scope and enhanced support for SMEs, the 2024 expo is poised to foster new business opportunities and strengthen global partnerships.