China-South Asia Expo strengthens regional trade ties

KUNMING, China,June 25, 2025/PRNewswire/ -- A report from chinadaily.com.cn

The 9th China-South Asia Expo, running fromJune 19 to 24, in Kunming,Southwest China'sYunnanprovince, not only promoted trade linkage amongChina,South AsiaandSoutheast Asia, but also forged people-to-people exchanges.

The expo has already secured deals worth8.66 billion yuan($1.21 billion), officials announced at a press conference on Monday.

According to the provincial department of commerce, a total of 163 agreements have been signed as of Monday. This includes 150 contracts valued at8.3 billion yuan, 12 letters of intent totaling213 million yuan, and one framework procurement agreement worth150 million yuan.

The deals span multiple sectors, including agricultural and food products, minerals, chemicals, machinery, apparel, footwear, and headwear. Additionally, the expo has facilitated over 20 cooperation agreements in supply chain services, international logistics, overseas warehouse construction, and smart port development.

The six-day event has drawn participation from 73 countries, regions, and international organizations, with over 2,500 enterprises showcasing products and forging new partnerships.

This year's expo features 16 exhibition halls, with nearly 70 percent dedicated to specialized industries such as manufacturing, green energy, coffee, and traditional Chinese medicine. TwoSouth Asia-themed pavilions with nearly 800 booths highlight regional trade, withIndiaandPakistaneach occupying 140 booths.

PakistanandNepalalso spotlighted handicrafts and textiles, underscoring the expo's role in fostering people-to-people ties.

"China'smarket is the best,"saidRashad Ali, an exhibitor fromPakistan, praisingChina'sBelt and Road Initiative for boosting connectivity.

Nearly 40 economic and trade events, including forums and procurement matchmaking meetings, have been held to deepen cooperation. Since its inception in 2013, the expo has facilitated over$110 billionin foreign trade transactions and served more than 20,000 enterprises.

In 2024, trade betweenChinaand South Asian countries neared$200 billion, doubling over the past decade with an average annual growth rate of 6.3 percent, according to data fromChina'sMinistry of Commerce.

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SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn