The 2nd China International Import Expo (CIIE) kicked off on 5 Nov as the world’s attention was once again drawn to the international city of Shanghai. The CIIE this year continued to deliver the country’s promise to further open its domestic market, linking local buyers to sellers across the world.

Fijian delegation at the 2nd CIIE was headed by H.E. M. Tagicakibau – Fijian Ambassador to China and other delegates include Dr. Yolinda Chan, Consul General of the Republic of Fiji in Shanghai, Amelia Cobona, Second Secretary of the Fijian Embassy to China and Shinal Prasad, Senior Economic Planning Officer from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism. 

The delegation took part in a series of side events during the CIIE, such as the International Economic Forum and the Shanghai City Promotion. On Nov 6, the delegation celebrated the 1st Anniversary of the launching of the Fijian National Pavilion, a concept started at the Inaugural China International Import Expo in 2018 to provide a permanent platform in the Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone to exhibit and promote Fijian made goods and services. The event on Wednesday also included other VIPs from other Pacific Island Countries including the Trade Minister of Samoa. During his speech at the venue, H.E. M. Tagicakibau said he was proud that the Fiji National Pavilion has established itself as a good example to tap into the spillover effect of CCIE in “heralding the drive from the South Pacific, which as a whole has a lot to offer to the vast Chinese market.”

The celebration event also featured interactive sessions of tuna tasting and a special auction with all the money raised be used for promoting Fiji in China.