The 4th China-CEEC Expo & International Consumer Goods Fair opened in Ningbo, Zhejiang from May 22 to 25, offering a dynamic stage for Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) to connect with one of the world's largest consumer markets. Over the past decade, trade between the Chinese mainland and CEEC has surged: two-way trade hit a record $142.3 billion in 2024, while Chinese investment in the region topped $24 billion.
Since 2012, annual trade growth between the Chinese mainland and CEEC has averaged 8.8%, outpacing overall foreign trade expansion. Imports from CEEC climbed at 7.4% per year, reflecting growing demand for European goods across sectors from agriculture to tech. At last year's expo, hundreds of CEEC companies showcased 5,000 unique products and sealed roughly $1.5 billion in orders.
On the heels of these successes, the Chinese mainland introduced a trial visa waiver program for ordinary passport holders from 38 countries, including CEEC members such as Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Estonia and Latvia. This move is set to streamline cross-border travel, spark fresh business opportunities and foster people-to-people exchanges.
Beyond immediate gains, the expo embodies the Chinese mainland's broader strategy of high-level opening-up. By rolling out reforms, expanding access in trade, investment and innovation, and deepening multilateral partnerships, Beijing is widening the aperture for global entrepreneurs and changemakers to engage with its market.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and thought leaders tuning in, the expo signals more than trade data: it offers a glimpse into evolving international ties and the real-world impact of open markets. As the Chinese mainland continues to open its doors wider, the 4th China-CEEC Expo stands as a vibrant testament to cooperation across continents.
Reference(s):
China-CEEC expo is reiteration of Beijing's commitment to openness
cgtn.com
