NEW OPPORTUNITIES

The CIIE unlocks new opportunities for the world, Bayer said, adding that it will actively leverage this vital platform to continuously unleash its innovative potential while looking forward to forging partnerships with global collaborators.

Penne Kehl, Asia Pacific Group president of Cargill Agriculture and Trading, expects a very busy schedule at the import expo, including meeting with customers and partners and signing a few important deals and partnerships. US food giant Cargill has participated in CIIE for seven consecutive years.

As its influence grows, the expo is attracting new foreign enterprises over the years. Canadian sportswear giant Lululemon is among the first-time participants.

The Chinese mainland is Lululemon's largest market outside of North America and is also one of the most dynamic and exciting ones, which is key to driving the company's international business, said Calvin McDonald, CEO of Lululemon.

"It's an exciting opportunity to showcase the brand, drive awareness to our growth story and what we have planned for the future," said McDonald. He added that Lululemon will continue to open more stores in the country, adding to its current 137 stores in 41 cities.

China offers free booths and other support measures to 37 least-developed countries to help them showcase their products at the import expo. It also expanded the exhibition area for African agricultural products.

China has been opening up its market to Africa, enabling transformation on the African continent, said Peter Kagwanja, founder and president of the Africa Policy Institute.