Document calls for resuming live exhibitions to boost export growth

A recently-issued guideline containing a raft of detailed and concrete policy incentives aimed at maintaining China's foreign trade and optimizing trade structure comes at a critical time, as it should instill much-needed confidence in foreign companies looking to do business in China and make foreign trade development healthier and more sustainable, experts and company leaders said.

On April 25, the General Office of the State Council, China's Cabinet, published a guideline containing 18 specific policy measures, including the orderly resumption of live trade exhibitions in China, facilitating visas for overseas business people and continued support for automobile exports. It also urged lower-level governments and commerce chambers to intensify efforts to encourage domestic foreign trade companies to participate in overseas exhibitions and to organize their own events abroad.

The measures are seen as "much needed" by many foreign trade company owners in China. As much of the world ground to a halt as a result of the pandemic during the past three years, pent-up demand for trade exhibitions and international travel grew. Though numerous online exhibitions were held during the period, business owners still feel live exhibitions are the best way to attract clients, showcase their products and broaden their own perspectives.

"Professional industrial exhibitions serve as an essential connection between the supply and demand sides in industrial and supply chains," said Chen Dexing, president of Wenzhou Kanger Crystallite Utensils Co Ltd, a Zhejiang province-based glass and ceramic ware manufacturer that employs more than 1,500 people.

"Most foreign customers prefer to see, touch and feel products before placing orders. Participating in trade shows will certainly help us get a clear picture of what consumers want and gain some insights in terms of product design and function," he said. "After all, not every export deal can be sealed via cross-border e-commerce channels."