The China International Import Expo will facilitate cooperation between China and Italy in multiple fields, a senior official from the Chinese Embassy in Italy said at an online CIIE promotion meeting on April 8.

Li Bin, minister counselor for economic and commercial affairs at the Chinese Embassy in Italy, said Italy boasts delicate, innovative, high-quality products, which are popular among Chinese customers.

According to Li, the trade volume between the two countries exceeded a record $55 billion last year.

"Cumulative commodity imports in China are expected to exceed $22 trillion over the next decade, which will offer more business opportunities for Italian firms," Li said.

Li expressed hope that the CIIE will promote cooperation between the two countries in fields including digital economy and environmental protection.

"The fourth CIIE will be of great significance this year as it will be a sign of global economic recovery. We will serve all Italian companies participating in the event and encourage their business collaborations with Chinese companies," said Marco Bettin, secretary general of Italy-China Chamber of Commerce and Chief Operating Officer of Italy China Foundation.

According to Ma Fengmin, financial director of the CIIE Bureau, hundreds of Italian firms have participated in the event over the past three years, occupying a total exhibition area of nearly 40,000 square meters.

By Cao Chen