CISCE 2024: Strengthening global trade through collaboration and innovation
By Hasan Muhammad
Editor's Note: The writer is a freelance columnist on international affairs based in Karachi, Pakistan. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of China Economic Net.
In a world where global supply chains are the lifeblood of economies, Beijing this week becomes the nexus of an ambitious effort to reshape their future. The second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) opened to the applause of over 1,300 participants from more than 100 countries, regions, and international organizations. This is no ordinary trade show.
As the first global exhibition devoted exclusively to the intricate, ever-evolving domain of supply chains, CISCE underscores its mission to bridge the entire spectrum-upstream, midstream, downstream - of modern industry. With over 600 companies, including a remarkable 20 percent uptick in participation compared to its inaugural run, this year's expo reveals China's growing clout as a convener of innovation and collaboration.
The numbers tell the story: participation by the world's economic powerhouses at this year's China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) has surged dramatically. Attendance by top 500 transnational enterprises is up 42 percent, while representation from leading Chinese companies and private enterprises has jumped 46 and 70 percent, respectively. These figures aren't just a testament to the expo's growing prestige-they signal a recognition by global and domestic players alike of the event's strategic role in shaping the future of supply chains.
The once-restrictive "negative list" for foreign investment has been steadily reduced, and manufacturing is now fully open to global players. At the same time, China is revamping its institutional framework to further streamline foreign investments, making it clear that it intends to remain not just a participant in the global economy but an architect of its future. For businesses navigating an era of fractured supply chains, the message from Beijing is clear: opportunity still flows through China. China's trade numbers tell a compelling story of resilience and global integration.
In the first 10 months of this year, the total value of imports and exports rose by 5.2 percent year-on-year, while newly-established foreign-invested firms surged by 11.8 percent. These figures underscore the effectiveness of China's opening-up policies, which continue to attract foreign businesses and fortify global supply chains. At a time when protectionist tendencies threaten international commerce, Beijing's deliberate strategy of market liberalization-paired with targeted reforms-demonstrates its intent to remain a cornerstone of global industry. The world, it seems, still finds ample opportunity in China's economic orbit.
The event's theme, "Connecting the World for a Shared Future," underscores China's pivotal role as both a hub and a catalyst for global supply chain resilience. For businesses seeking new opportunities in an interconnected world, this expo is more than a trade fair-it's a stage for shaping the future of global commerce. China has long been a force to reckon with-a colossal market, a global manufacturing hub, and a magnet for international investment. But its true influence lies in its commitment to "opening up," a policy that ripples far beyond its borders.
（Editor:Liao Yifan）
