A promotional event for the seventh China International Import Expo and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum was held on April 11 in Johannesburg, South Africa, attracting over 200 participants from local government, CIIE exhibitors, exhibition organizations, businesses, and media outlets.

A promotional event for the seventh CIIE and the Hongqiao forum is held in Johannesburg on April 11. [Photo/CIIE Bureau]

Liu Yu, minister counsellor of the Chinese embassy in South Africa, said that the CIIE, as the world's first national-level exhibition focusing on imports, not only showcases high-quality products, technologies, and services, but also offers significant market and investment opportunities for businesses worldwide.

Noting that more South African products like wine, beef, and rooibos tea have made their way to the expo, she said she hopes for more active participation from South Africa and other African countries in the CIIE to seize opportunities in China's growing market.

Lerato Mataboge, deputy director-general for export promotion, development, and outward investments in the South African Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition, confirmed South Africa's commitment to participating in the seventh CIIE and leveraging the expo to deepen investment cooperation and economic ties with China.

Song Shangzhe from the CIIE Bureau provided an overview of the CIIE and affirmed its commitment to supporting South African businesses and quality products entering the Chinese market.

Yu Zirong, vice-president of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, introduced the basic information of the Hongqiao forum, which is an important part of the CIIE. He encouraged more South African and African friends to pay attention to and participate in the forum to deepen their understanding of China and promote Sino-African cooperation and African development.

Representatives deliver speeches during the event. [Photo/CIIE Bureau]

During the event, the CIIE Bureau signed memoranda of cooperation or agreements for participating in the expo with Standard Bank Group, China Dream SA, the Kimberley Diamond and Jewellery Incubator, Sarah Baartman District Municipality, and Aspen Pharmacare.

A signing ceremony is held during the event. [Photo/CIIE Bureau]

By Zhao Guangmei