As anticipation builds for the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), China Exim Bank has unveiled an exclusive financial services package, "Smart Finance Global 2024," designed to support CIIE's mission of opening up and expanding global trade connections. This specialized plan, announced in Shanghai on October 25, promises innovative, full-spectrum financial solutions that go beyond funding—aiming to power deeper, smarter collaborations across international supply chains.

A Platform Driving China's High-Level Opening-Up

In his opening remarks, China Exim Bank's Vice President Yang Dongning emphasized the strategic importance of the CIIE, noting that it's not just an expo but a key platform driving China's high-level opening-up. “Since its inception, we've supported the CIIE, continuously adapting our services to meet the evolving needs of global businesses entering China,” Yang said. His words underscore how China Exim Bank's commitment to CIIE mirrors China's dedication to a more open, dynamic global economy.

Chief Financial Officer of the CIIE Bureau, Ge Hong, echoed Yang's sentiments. “As a policy-driven financial institution, China Exim Bank plays an irreplaceable role in facilitating international partnerships, particularly under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI),” he noted. Through strategic financial support, China Exim Bank is not just a partner but a driver of collaboration that opens doors to the Chinese market.

What's New in "Smart Finance Global 2024"

China Exim Bank's latest offering takes a holistic approach to financial services. "Smart Finance Global 2024" is designed to address complex, multi-faceted needs of global supply chains and offers customized financing and advisory support to foster resilient and sustainable trade relationships. This marks a bold step towards reimagining traditional banking services for a more interconnected world.

The plan also reflects lessons learned from last year's CIIE, where China Exim Bank provided financial support to businesses from 33 countries, with transactions totaling over RMB 80 billion. To date, its import credit balance has reached RMB 860 billion—a testament to the bank's expanding footprint in global trade.

A Showcase of Global Innovation and Technology

Beyond financial services, CIIE is where some of the world's most cutting-edge innovations make their debut in China. Long-time exhibitors like Medtronic are returning with nearly 100 new products, while Qualcomm is showcasing its latest Snapdragon platform. For the first time, a dedicated "New Materials" zone will spotlight high-value sectors like biotech, electronics, and specialty materials, with heavyweights like Invista, Nippon Paint, and Advantest making their Expo debut. According to Dr. Li Jian of the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, “CIIE isn't just an exhibition; it's a launchpad for transformative productivity.”

Official figures highlight CIIE's growing impact: over the past six years, nearly 2,500 new products, technologies, and services have premiered at the Expo, resulting in cumulative intended transaction volumes exceeding USD 420 billion. Many exhibitors have leveraged CIIE as a springboard to open new stores, factories, and R&D centers in China, further cementing its role as a catalyst for global business expansion.

Green Finance Takes Center Stage

Sustainability is another prominent theme at CIIE 2024, especially in the field of green finance. Leading financial institutions like Standard Chartered are using the CIIE platform to highlight their latest innovations in sustainable finance. Dr. Li Zhiqing from Fudan University emphasizes that CIIE is a bridge, facilitating alignment between domestic and international standards in the green finance sector.

As China accelerates its transition to a low-carbon economy, CIIE has become a critical stage for companies to showcase their ESG strategies, build trust, and drive collaboration in green finance and sustainable development.

CIIE as a Catalyst for High-Impact Global Connections

The 7th CIIE is more than a showcase—it's an incubator for partnerships that drive economic growth, sustainability, and innovation on a global scale. With tailored financial services from China Exim Bank and a lineup of high-profile events, the Expo is primed to spark new collaborations and redefine the future of global trade.

For businesses looking to enter or expand in China, CIIE is the gateway to a market that values innovation and collaboration. Through strategic partnerships and shared goals, CIIE 2024 is set to reinforce China's role as a central player in the global economy, opening doors for meaningful engagement and long-term growth.