By Aidoghie Paulinus
The newest edition of the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the world’s first national-level exposition dedicated to imports, took place in Shanghai, China, from November 5 to 10, 2024.
During the commencement of the 7th CIIE and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum, Chinese Premier, Li Qiang, delivered a keynote speech.
Li said China has continued to walk the talk in expanding opening up, adding that China’s overall tariff level has been reduced to 7.3 percent, overshooting its target of 9.8 percent.
Li also said China has fully implemented all the opening-up measures announced at the previous six CIIEs, including scrapping all items in the manufacturing industry on the national negative list for foreign investment.
He stated that China is willing to open up its enormous market further and will continue to expand market access to sectors in an orderly fashion, including telecommunications, the internet, education, culture and healthcare.
“The sound fundamentals of the Chinese economy remain unchanged, and the country is capable of promoting sound and steady economic growth.
“China is confident in achieving this year’s economic and social development goals and the future development of its economy,” Li said.
Running from November 5 to 10, the 7th CIIE has attracted about 3,500 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions. It also sets a new record with 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders attending the event.