The countdown has begun for the 8th China International Import Expo, which will open on November 5 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). This marks another edition of the world’s first national-level expo focused on imports.

This year, dozens of countries and international organizations have confirmed participation in the country comprehensive exhibition, with Kyrgyzstan joining for the first time. The business exhibition has attracted over 3,200 companies from more than 110 countries and regions, with signed exhibition space exceeding 360,000 square meters, demonstrating strong confidence in China’s economy and enthusiasm for the expo.

The annual gathering at the Import Expo represents a commitment between numerous multinational corporations and China. For the 8th expo, the CEO of Chiesi Group will lead the executive team to visit China again, continuing to deepen exchanges and cooperation with Chinese partners. This marks the first time the 90-year-old Italian international pharmaceutical group will showcase its three core business areas — «respiratory health,» «rare diseases,» and «specialty care» — together at the same platform, with many innovative products making their debut.

«After nearly 20 years of development in China, we increasingly recognize the importance of the Chinese market and have positioned China as one of our most important growth engines and strategic markets. We are committed to accelerating the introduction of global innovative products to the Chinese market while bringing Chinese domestic innovations to international markets. The Import Expo serves as a crucial open platform for connection and a fast track for multinational companies to deepen cooperation and achieve results. Here, we join hands with Chinese partners to create a new era and share future opportunities.»

Shiseido Group, participating for the eighth consecutive year, will showcase 50 new product launches across multiple renowned brands, covering skincare, cosmetics, fragrances, and sun protection. «We are pleased to see the Chinese market demonstrating increasingly broad inclusiveness. The Import Expo remains an important platform for Shiseido to showcase innovation achievements and deepen local connections.»

Richemont Group will present all seven of its brands at the 8th Import Expo: Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Vacheron Constantin, Alaïa, Dunhill, and Montblanc. Montblanc will specially present the 2025 «Heritage Collection» limited edition writing instruments, while Vacheron Constantin will globally launch two new timepiece creations at the expo.

«We continue to deepen our presence in the Chinese market, contributing to the growth of China’s premium goods industry. This marks our sixth participation in the Import Expo, and we eagerly look forward to sharing the timeless artistic legacy and enduring craftsmanship heritage with visitors at this year’s event.»

According to statistics from the China International Import Expo Bureau, the previous seven expos have cumulatively showcased approximately 3,000 new products, technologies, and services, with intended transaction volumes exceeding $500 billion, attracting 23,000 overseas exhibitors in total.

«China’s vast market is genuinely transforming into global opportunities. Against the backdrop of increasing instability and uncertainty in global economic and trade relations, successfully hosting the 8th Import Expo holds special significance.»

National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai)

The National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) in Shanghai is one of the world’s largest exhibition complexes, famously recognized for its distinctive «Four-Leaf Clover» architectural design. It was constructed for its role as the main venue for the China International Import Expo (CIIE), which first opened at the center in 2018. The NECC has since become a major hub for international trade shows, conventions, and large-scale events in China.

China International Import Expo

The China International Import Expo (CIIE) is an annual international trade fair held in Shanghai, first launched in 2018. It was initiated by the Chinese government to promote global trade and open its domestic market to foreign goods and services. The expo serves as a major platform for international businesses to showcase their products and strengthen economic cooperation with China.

Chiesi Group

Chiesi Group is an international pharmaceutical company founded in Parma, Italy, in 1935 by Giacomo Chiesi. It has grown from a small laboratory into a global corporation focused on research and development, particularly in respiratory health and rare diseases. Today, it operates worldwide while remaining a certified B Corp, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

Shiseido Group

The Shiseido Group is a leading Japanese multinational company, founded in 1872 in Tokyo’s Ginza district as the nation’s first Western-style pharmacy. It has since evolved into a global powerhouse in the beauty and cosmetics industry, renowned for its innovative research, high-quality products, and sophisticated brand aesthetic.

Richemont Group

The Richemont Group is not a physical place or cultural site, but a Swiss-based luxury goods holding company founded in 1988 by the South African Rupert family. It owns a prestigious portfolio of brands, including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Montblanc, specializing in jewelry, watches, and writing instruments. The company’s history is rooted in the entrepreneurial ventures of the Rupert family, who built it into one of the world’s leading luxury conglomerates.

Cartier

Cartier is a renowned French luxury goods company founded in Paris in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier. It gained fame for its exquisite jewelry and watches, becoming a favorite among royalty and celebrities, including King Edward VII of Britain who referred to Cartier as «the jeweler of kings and the king of jewelers.» Today, it remains a global symbol of elegance and craftsmanship, known for iconic designs like the Panther motif and the Tank watch.

Van Cleef & Arpels

Van Cleef & Arpels is a renowned French high jewelry house founded in Paris in 1906 by Alfred Van Cleef and his brothers-in-law, the Arpels. The company is celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship, innovative techniques like the invisible setting, and iconic designs such as the Alhambra motif. Throughout its history, it has been a favorite of royalty and celebrities, solidifying its status as a symbol of luxury and elegance.

Montblanc

Montblanc is a beautifully preserved medieval walled town in Catalonia, Spain, founded in the 12th century. Its history is deeply connected to the Crown of Aragon, and its well-maintained walls, gates, and historic buildings offer a remarkable glimpse into the region’s past. The town is also famously linked to the legend of Saint George (Sant Jordi) and his battle with the dragon.