The Ministry of Commerce and the government of Northeast China's Jilin province held an investment promotional event targeted at exhibitors of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Changchun, the capital of Jilin, on March 23.

About 160 foreign companies and investment promotion agencies, more than 70 of which are Fortune Global 500 companies and world leading companies, participated in the event. These companies are involved in sectors in which Jilin has a competitive edge, such as automobile, equipment manufacturing, healthcare, and food.

Commerce Minister Wang Wentao said in his video address that Jilin, which plays an important role in China's opening-up to Northeast Asia, has a solid industrial base, unique natural conditions, and an improving business environment. He added the ministry will continue to expand market access and offer more favorable policies to foreign investors.

Jing Junhai, Party secretary of Jilin, addresses the event. [Photo by Han Junhong/China Daily]

Jing Junhai, Party secretary of Jilin, said during the meeting that the province has been making new progress in high-quality development and that he welcomes investors to capitalize on Jilin's business opportunities.

The event provided Jilin with a great opportunity to enhance international exchanges and cooperation, as well as promote high-level opening-up, noted Jing.

Foreign investors talk with representatives from local governments and companies in Jilin. [Photo by Han Junhong/China Daily]

Many foreign investors have made headway in their exchanges with local governments, industrial parks, and companies. For example, US energy technology company Baker Hughes is looking to cooperate with local companies on hydrogen energy and electric vehicle testing matters, while Roche Diagnostics is planning to discuss partnerships with medical institutions in Jilin.

The event was the first in a series of local investment promotional activities involving CIIE exhibitors. It was also part of the "Invest in China Year" campaign launched by the Ministry of Commerce.

By Zhao Luyang