A business roundtable promoting the eighth CIIE was held in Oslo on April 28. [Photo/CIIE Bureau]

A business roundtable promoting the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE) was held in Oslo on April 28, drawing participation from many leading organizations and enterprises.

Chen Wenlin, the economic and commercial councilor of the Chinese Embassy in Norway, said when addressing the event that China and Norway, both long-standing proponents of free trade, have maintained high-level communication and fruitful cooperation despite mounting uncertainties in the overall international environment. With China having launched various new measures to become more accessible to the world, Chen expects more Norwegian companies to take part in the CIIE and engage in cooperation with Chinese partners, advancing trade between the two countries.

Ge Hong, deputy director-general of the China International Import Expo Bureau (CIIEB), said that China and Norway have had close cooperation in the fields of clean energy, consumer goods, and seafood. Up to 26 companies from Norway attended the seventh CIIE last year. The eighth CIIE, with a booked exhibition area of nearly 250,000 square meters, now awaits more Norwegian exhibitors with open arms.

André Eriksen, CEO of Aker BioMarine Human Ingredients AS, shared his experience at the CIIE and confirmed his company’s participation in the eighth CIIE. He said that the event has been very helpful for foreign companies to find market opportunities in China and build ties with relevant government authorities.

The CIIE working team introduced the event's highlights and its anticipated outcomes. During their introduction, they also shared stories of the success of some previous Norwegian exhibitors.

At the seminar, Vitalkost AS signed a contract for participation at the eighth CIIE, while NYO3 International AS and Norway International Economic & Trade Development Association signed memorandums of cooperation with the CIIEB.

While in Oslo, the CIIE working team visited Innovation Norway, signing a memorandum of cooperation and held discussions with Lion Healthcare Europe AS and other Norwegian companies regarding participation in the CIIE.

The event was hosted by the CIIEB, the Chinese Embassy in Norway, and the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai).

By Li Hanmeng