The sixth China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai is witnessing strong European participation, reflecting continued interest in the Chinese mainland’s vast market opportunities. Tomas Kucera, Executive Director of the Czech Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai and General Manager (China) of Gemini Personnel, shared his insights on the event.
“Companies that focus on revisiting China see the Expo as a key marketing opportunity to display their latest technology,” Kucera said. Having attended the CIIE multiple times, he noted the persistent interest among international brands in engaging with Chinese consumers.
This year’s Expo, being the first major physical exhibition post-pandemic, has reignited optimism among foreign businesses. “There is a continuous hope to find opportunities in China,” Kucera observed. He emphasized that many are exploring ways to enter or expand in the Chinese market, buoyed by the return to normalcy and the economy’s forward momentum.
Kucera highlighted the allure of the Chinese mainland’s massive consumer base. “It is clearly the largest market in many industries, with huge consumer potential,” he stated. He pointed out that the significant savings held by Chinese consumers represent untapped purchasing power that foreign brands are eager to access.
Beyond consumer goods, Kucera mentioned the importance of being integrated into Chinese supply chains, especially as China advances in technology. “It’s important for foreign brands to be embedded in the Chinese supply chains as they go international,” he explained.
As businesses worldwide look to the future, Kucera expressed confidence in the prospects within the Chinese mainland. “We are all hopeful, and all companies are hopeful that they can grow their business in the Chinese market,” he said.
Reference(s):
CIIE 2023: China remains lucrative for int'l consumer brands
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