'Matchmaking' meet to carry on benefits of CIIE

The Shanghai Commission of Commerce held a business "matchmaking" meeting yesterday to promote investment in preparation for the first China International Import Expo next month.

The meeting, attended by about 250 people, including representatives from the Expo bureau, diplomatic missions, multinationals, investment promotion bureaus and economic and technology zones, aimed to map out a plan to amplify the spill-over effect of next month's event.

A total of 2,800 companies from all the G20 member states, as well as 50 countries and regions along the Belt and Road will participate in the expo.

The Commission of Commerce said yesterday's meeting was also aimed at demonstrating China's determination to constantly expand the reform and opening-up of the economy and business and and further increase investment and trade between China and other countries and regions.

The session has introduced the 45 special "visiting routes" highlighting Shanghai's business strengths and opportunities and 30 investment promotion activities tailored for Expo participants and strengthen links between each and those involved in the Expo.

Organized the the Commission of Commerce and the city's 16 districts, these features cover sectors including intelligent manufacturing, commerce and finance, culture and creativity and health care through excursions, visits, forums and symposiums.

"The activities have been planned around our local cultural and historical features and fuse elements such as regionally advantageous industries and leading industries for development," the commission said.