The vibrant halls of the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai are set to welcome 23 Cuban companies from November 5 to 10, as Havana seeks to strengthen its trade ties with China. Naima Alfonso Acosta, director of the department of associates at the Cuban Chamber of Commerce, calls CIIE an “irreplaceable accelerator for business relations,” providing valuable face-to-face meetings that fuel long-term growth.
From Agri-Food to Cosmetics: Cuba’s Diverse Delegation
This year’s Cuban delegation spans agri-food, technology, biopharmaceuticals, perfumery and cosmetics. By showcasing homegrown rum, organic produce and innovative skincare, participants aim to secure sales channels and establish a foothold in China’s dynamic consumer market.
Building Lasting Partnerships
“Our work doesn’t end with the exhibition days,” Alfonso explains. Beyond the expo floor, Cuban teams tour factories, host follow-up meetings and seal new contracts. Last year’s deals even led to large volumes of Cuban rum selling out on e-commerce platforms in China, illustrating how digital channels accelerate global trade.
Biotech on the Global Stage
BioCubaFarma, a flagship biotechnology group, will unveil a cutting-edge portfolio at the expo. Santiago Duenas, vice president of BioCubaFarma, highlights joint ventures in China—a mix of three partnerships and one fully Cuban-owned firm—and three collaborative labs. The showcase features a neuroprotective treatment for dementia, an acne therapy, cancer therapies powered by monoclonal antibodies and novel tech platforms. More than 30 cooperation projects have emerged from past expos, proving CIIE’s impact on scientific exchange.
“China is a strategic ally in pharmaceutical cooperation,” Duenas notes, pointing to the China-Cuba community with a shared future and the Belt and Road Initiative as pillars of future collaboration.
Looking Ahead
As global trade landscapes evolve, events like CIIE empower young entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts and digital explorers to harness real-world impact. By blending culture, innovation and sustainability, Cuba and China are charting a path for the next generation of global business and cultural exchange.
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Cuba explores new business opportunities at China's import expo
cgtn.com
