The 22nd China-ASEAN Expo and Business and Investment Summit opened on September 17 in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Under the theme "Digital Intelligence and Innovation empower Development – Leveraging ASEAN-China FTA 3.0 new opportunities," the event drew over 3,200 companies from 60 countries.
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the China–ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA). Attendees are focused on the upcoming CAFTA 3.0 protocol, aiming to support high-quality development under the Belt and Road Initiative and deepen engagement across the Global South.
A highlight is the new 10,000-square-meter AI pavilion, showcasing nearly 200 leading tech enterprises and startups such as Huawei, Alibaba Cloud, and iFlytek. Exhibitors are shifting from traditional industrial goods to higher value sectors like smart manufacturing, green energy, logistics, and precision agriculture.
Safeguarding Global Supply Chains
Amid rising unilateralism and protectionism, the expo underscores the importance of regional cooperation. With geographic proximity and cultural ties, the Chinese mainland and ASEAN remain like-minded partners committed to keeping supply chains resilient and open.
Since CAFTA’s launch in 2010, and its 2019 upgrade to CAFTA 2.0, each phase has delivered deeper integration. The forthcoming CAFTA 3.0 seeks to break new ground by easing trade hurdles and boosting digital and green trade.
As the event unfolds, it stands out as a model of cross-border openness and cross-civilization exchange. For young entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and policy leaders, the expo offers a front-row seat to the future of regional trade and innovation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
