The ongoing 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai has drawn a host of multinational corporations eager to tap into China's vast market potential. This year, both returning participants and newcomers are showcasing their latest offerings and strategic developments, underscoring the expo's significance as a gateway to China's growing economy and expanding consumer base.

Gilead Sciences, a US-based biopharma company, is showcasing its latest innovative developments in virology, oncology and mycology and advancements in health equity at the 7th CIIE. It is the third time for Gilead to participate in the annual CIIE.

At its 500-square-meter booth, the company is debuting its new therapy for primary biliary cholangitis, which was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in August this year. The results of two Phase 3 trials for its twice-yearly injectable HIV-1 capsid inhibitor for HIV prevention were also highlighted.

Gilead's booth at the 7th CIIE. [Photo/China Daily]

"China is one of the largest, most dynamic and most vital markets in the world. It is also one of the most important markets to Gilead's long-term growth strategy. We are therefore honored to participate in the CIIE once again. The event is a showcase of China's robust economic growth, strength in innovation and increasing openness to mutual collaboration that benefits us all," said Johanna Mercier, Gilead's chief commercial officer.

At the CIIE, the company has also signed several collaboration agreements with partners including governments, local distributors and industry associations, to enhance drug access, improve treatment outcome and the quality of life for patients, and help to drive disease diagnosis and treatment, so as to support the advancement of the "Healthy China 2030" initiative, according to the company.

"We are benefiting from the strong spillover effects of the CIIE. Over the past two years, Gilead has accelerated the introduction of globally leading innovative drugs to Chinese patients, including the launch of new products for triple negative breast cancer and for invasive fungal diseases," said Jin Fangqian, vice-president of Gilead and the general manager for its China affiliate.

Multinational pharmaceutical company MSD, a six-time participant of the expo, is showcasing nearly 30 approved drugs and vaccines available in China at this year's expo. The portfolio spans multiple areas, including oncology, diabetes, anti-infectives, rare diseases, and anesthesia.

This year marks the 35th anniversary of MSD transferring its hepatitis B vaccine technology to China at zero profit — and more than three decades of it continuously benefiting the health and lives of millions of Chinese people.

An event commemorating the anniversary took place on Wednesday during the 7th CIIE. It was designed to honor and reflect upon the remarkable journey of the hepatitis B vaccine technology transfer while encouraging discussions and envisioning the innovative evolution of China's public health sector.

The 35th anniversary of the hepatitis B vaccine technology transfer is marked with a group photo. [Photo/China Daily]

"Thirty-five years ago, MSD transferred its hepatitis B vaccine technology to China and actively assisted in the local production of the vaccine, starting an unforgettable journey," said Anna Van Acker, senior vice-president of MSD and president of MSD China.

As MSD's second-largest market, China plays a pivotal role in the company's global expansion strategy. With over 30 years of comprehensive market exploration, MSD China remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering advanced innovative products and health solutions to the Chinese people.

In addition to regular participants, the 7th CIIE welcomes a number of newcomers. Among them is Galeries Lafayette, one of the world's oldest department stores. As part of the French Pavilion, Galeries Lafayette's booth features a central exhibition area, along with segments dedicated to fashion, lifestyle, beauty, and gourmet foods.

Galeries Lafayette's booth is featured at the French Pavilion of the 7th CIIE. [Photo/China Daily]

Galeries Lafayette is the only French department store with a presence in China. Its first store in China opened in Chengdu in 1997. Over the past years, it has deepened its presence across the country and operates five more stores in Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Shenzhen, and Macau, making China its largest overseas market outside France in both store count and market share.

During press events held on Nov 6 and 7 at the 7th CIIE, Nicolas Morineaux, chief executive officer of Galeries Lafayette China, shared the group's strategy for 2025. To enhance flexibility in its operations, Galeries Lafayette plans to introduce franchising and hybrid management models, allowing more Chinese consumers across various cities to experience the brand's distinct French style.

Also making its debut at the CIIE this year is global premium chocolate brand Lindt & Sprüngli. For its first appearance, Lindt is showcasing its iconic Lindor truffle collection alongside a selection of core products and curated new releases. Lindt brings Thomas Schnetzler, one of only five Lindt Master Chocolatiers worldwide, to its booth to walk attendees through the chocolate-making process, from cocoa bean to finished product. He also led hands-on sessions where participants could create their own Lindor truffles.

Lindt's Lindor truffle collection is showcased at the 7th CIIE. [Photo/China Daily]

Lindt entered the Chinese market in 2012 and has since achieved strong growth. The brand has expanded its multi-channel presence both online and offline, catering to segments like weddings and event gift boxes, broadening its reach and customer base in China.

This year, Lindt launched a new repackaging and logistics hub in Shanghai's Yangshan Port. The facility shortens transportation times, ensuring that Lindt chocolates reach consumers across China and the Asia-Pacific region more quickly and in optimal freshness.