Serbia, China's first comprehensive strategic partner in Central and Eastern Europe, has an increasing number of businesses participating in the annual China International Import Expo.

From 2018 to 2023, the number of Serbian exhibitors at the CIIE surged from six to 41, accompanied by a substantial increase in occupied exhibition space from approximately 100 square meters to nearly 700 square meters.

The products showcased by Serbian enterprises at the CIIE were mainly food and agricultural goods and consumer items. Through the expo, notable Serbian specialties such as wine, juice, cheeses, cereals, honey, jams, and meats have become popular among Chinese consumers.

The Serbian government has demonstrated its high regard for the CIIE, with the nation's President Aleksandar Vucic and Prime Minister Ana Brnabic addressing the expo's opening ceremonies through video messages and in-person appearances, respectively.

Serving as a bridge, the CIIE accelerates trade exchanges and fosters closer relations between China and Serbia. Brnabic, during her attendance at the sixth CIIE, highlighted the increasingly close cooperation between the two nations, noting a remarkable 185-fold increase in Serbian exports to China over the past decade.

The head of a Serbian company specializing in natural beverages and wines also highlighted the CIIE's significance in creating opportunities for Serbian exporters and strengthening global trade ties. He noted significant revenue growth and the formation of partnerships with numerous Chinese companies following his company's participation in the expo.

Jelena Grubor Stefanovic, director of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia's representative office in China, has already begun preparations for the seventh CIIE following the conclusion of the sixth edition. She revealed that the rapid development of some Serbian businesses in China is attracting more participants to the CIIE, with a focus on showcasing products to Chinese consumers and understanding their preferences.

Stefanovic anticipates even greater opportunities for Serbian products in China following the signing of the China-Serbia Free Trade Agreement in October 2023, which will gradually eliminate tariffs on key Serbian exports to China.

"We plan to expand our exhibition space to accommodate more Serbian enterprises and provide them with opportunities at the CIIE," said Stefanovic.

The Serbian national pavilion at the sixth CIIE. [Photo/CIIE Bureau]

Serbian specialties are showcased at the country's national pavilion during the sixth CIIE. [Photo/Chinese embassy in Serbia]

By Zhao Guangmei