The ninth China International Import Expo (CIIE) opened on November 5th, 2026, at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai, welcoming exhibitors and buyers from around the world. Running concurrently, the Hongqiao International Economic Forum brought together policymakers, business leaders, and academics to discuss global trade and economic cooperation. The event’s core message was clear: China will continue to expand imports and share its market opportunities with the world. This year’s expo also featured the first-ever release of the “Report on the Development of China’s Import Capacity,” highlighting a systematic effort to lower the barriers for global goods entering the Chinese market.
The CIIE has established itself as a major platform for international procurement, investment promotion, and cultural exchange since its inception. This year’s edition spans a vast exhibition area and features participating countries and regions from across the globe, with numerous Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders showcasing their products and services. The expo covers multiple exhibition zones, including food and agricultural products, automobiles, intelligent industry and information technology, consumer goods, medical equipment and healthcare, and trade in services. Beyond the exhibition halls, the event serves as a venue for signing procurement contracts and launching new products, reinforcing its role as a gateway for foreign enterprises seeking to enter the Chinese market.
The release of the “Report on the Development of China’s Import Capacity” marks a significant policy signal. The report outlines China’s evolving import landscape, the growing demand for high-quality foreign products, and the measures being taken to facilitate trade. It underscores a strategic shift toward proactive import expansion, aiming to provide consumers with more diverse choices while offering global businesses greater access to one of the world’s largest markets. The lowering of market access thresholds for global goods aligns with China’s broader commitments to trade liberalization and its ongoing efforts to optimize the business environment for foreign companies.
The Hongqiao Forum, held alongside the expo, addressed critical issues facing the global economy, including supply chain resilience, digital trade, and green development. The forum provided a platform for international dialogue on maintaining an open and inclusive multilateral trading system, especially amid rising protectionism and geopolitical uncertainties. For global businesses, the expo represents a tangible opportunity to forge partnerships, secure orders, and establish a presence in China. As the event progresses, the focus will remain on translating the stated commitment to expanded imports into concrete deals and long-term market access, reinforcing China’s position as a major driver of global trade and economic growth.