British Consul-General in Shanghai John Edwards expressed his hope that the China International Import Exhibition would be an opportunity for Chinese consumers to see some of the best British products.

He noted that Britain has a high reputation in creative industry, education and financial services. But Chinese consumers may see less of some of its high-end manufacturing, aerospace, automotives, food and drinks, retail, clothes etc., which are also great.

The consul general took an example that British exports of beer to China grew by over 100 percent over the last year. The exports of whiskey increased 30 percent, and salmon up again.