The seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) concluded on Sunday, with American agriculture exhibitors signing deals with their Chinese partners amounting to $711.4 million, a 40.9 percent increase over the previous year's $505 million.
This year, 14 US exhibitors representing 31 organizations participated in the US pavilion.
The participation marked the second time that the US engaged in the CIIE at a federal government level, emphasizing the significance of the food and agricultural sectors in strengthening US-China commercial ties, according to the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Shanghai.
Allan Gabor, chairman of AmCham Shanghai, stated that agricultural cooperation between China and the US is promising. Beyond agricultural goods trade, he highlighted potential for further bilateral cooperation in areas such as biosecurity and sustainability.
Jim Sutter, CEO of the US Soybean Export Council, expressed optimism about the future of the bilateral trade relationship, viewing China as a crucial partner for the US soybean industry.
Jason Hafemeister, acting deputy under secretary of the USDA, reaffirmed the US government's commitment to maintaining a healthy and stable trade relationship with China. He emphasized the potential for future collaboration, especially in agriculture.
Cao Derong, president of the China Chamber of Commerce of Import & Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce & Animal By-Products, noted that agricultural products imported from the US cater to the needs of the Chinese market and increase the income of American farmers. He added that both sides have gained tangible benefits, laying solid groundwork for cooperation.
\"CIIE has proven once again to be an important platform to showcase American products and services,\" said AmCham Shanghai President Eric Zheng.
Overall, participants of the 2024 CIIE secured tentative deals valued at $80.1 billion, up two percent from the previous year.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
