One year out, international import expo on track, minister says

The first China International Import Expo will further deepen the country's opening up and promote economic globalization, Minister of Commerce Zhong Shan said on Sunday.

Speaking at the one-year countdown ceremony for the expo, Zhong said it is a key move for China to open its economy and will further expand the country's growth as a trading power.

"The expo will promote the open world economy and contribute to building a community with a shared future," Zhong added.

The event will be held from Nov 5 to 10 next year at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai, Fu Ziying, vice-minister of commerce and China's international trade representative, said on Thursday. It is expected to attract vendors from more than 100 countries and regions.

Fu said: "We will go all out to complete the preparations and speed up the organization and publicity for inviting businesses, exhibitors and forums. At the same time, we will work out supporting approaches in greater detail to ensure the first China International Import Expo will be held as scheduled and be a great success."

The China International Import Expo Bureau has been set up for preparation for the expo, which will be sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce and the Shanghai municipal government.

Shanghai is currently expanding its innovation of the Pilot Free Trade Zone to better fulfill its role as the country's import distribution center.

The expo, which will have trade, investment and business exhibitions, will allow participating countries to present the general landscape of their trade and investments.

A series of supporting activities will be arranged during the event, including industry seminars and parallel forums.

Zhong said the Ministry of Commerce and Shanghai government will strengthen their cooperation and in order to build a world class expo next year.

Liu Yukun contributed to this story.