Officials unveil the first reception and service center for the China International Import Expo at Terminal 2 of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport on Oct 22. (Photo by Gao Erqiang/chinadaily.com.cn)

The first reception and service center for the upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE) was launched at Terminal 2 of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport on Oct 22.

Another six similar centers will be set up at the two airports of Shanghai – Hongqiao and Pudong, allowing travelers headed to the CIIE to receive information about the expo to be held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) from Nov 5 to 10.

The first reception and service center for the upcoming CIIE is unveiled at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport on Oct 22. (Photo by Gao Erqiang/chinadaily.com.cn)

According to Zhong Xiaomin, deputy chief of the China International Import Expo Bureau, these centers can offer visitors assistance regarding ways to reach the expo venue as well as lifestyle and travel services.

Covering an area of 60 square meters, the center serves as a platform for visitors to learn not just about the expo but the city as well.

Seats are available in the reception area where volunteers will answer questions related to the expo. Visitors can also access information through multimedia terminals installed at the center or through a map specially made for the expo.

Officials unveil the first reception and service center for the China International Import Expo at Terminal 2 of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport on Oct 22. (Photo by Gao Erqiang/chinadaily.com.cn)

The map, published on Oct 22 to help participants navigate the event venue, features a three-dimensional display of the exhibits and amenities.

Visitors can download an app by scanning a QR code on the map. According to Zhong, this app contains everything that visitors need to know about the CIIE, including news updates, navigational tools and translation service.

The first reception and service center for the upcoming CIIE is unveiled at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport on Oct 22. (Photo by Gao Erqiang/chinadaily.com.cn)

The center also has a rest area for visitors where first-aid kits and chargers are available upon request.

The other six service centers will become operational at the city’s two airports soon, Zhong said.