Cuban businesses are gearing up to deepen trade ties with the Chinese mainland at the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, with 23 companies set to showcase products ranging from biopharmaceuticals to premium rum. The event, running from November 5–10, is seen as a critical platform for accelerating cross-border partnerships amid growing economic collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Strategic Partnerships Take Center Stage
Naima Alfonso Acosta of the Cuban Chamber of Commerce emphasized the expo’s role as a "high-tech business ecosystem" fostering in-person connections. "The CIIE is irreplaceable for building relationships," she said, noting that last year’s event enabled Cuban rum brands to penetrate Chinese e-commerce markets. This year, Cuba’s delegation will highlight agri-food, biotechnology, and cosmetics sectors, aiming to secure long-term footholds in the world’s second-largest economy.
Biotech Innovations in Focus
BioCubaFarma, a key participant, plans to unveil cutting-edge medical solutions, including neuroprotective therapies and cancer treatments. Santiago Duenas, the group’s vice president, revealed that three joint ventures and labs in China have already laid the groundwork for expanded cooperation. "China is a strategic ally," he said, linking the expo to broader visions of a "shared future" between the two nations.
Beyond Trade: A Vision for Collaboration
Both Cuban officials underscored the expo’s role in post-event engagement, such as factory visits and follow-up negotiations. Alfonso noted that the delegation’s goals extend beyond immediate sales, aiming to "consolidate commercial relationships" through sustained dialogue. With Cuba increasingly aligning its economic strategies with China’s Belt and Road framework, the CIIE serves as a microcosm of evolving South-South cooperation.
