Xiamen, China – The 24th China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT), hosted by China’s Ministry of Commerce, is officially underway, running from September 8 to 11. This annual event is a significant platform for fostering global economic partnerships and investment opportunities. It aligns with the Global Development Initiative, embracing the permanent theme of “Expanding Two-Way Investment, Jointly Facilitating Global Development” and this year’s special focus, “Investment Linking the World.”
At its core, CIFIT champions the cause of high-quality inward and outward investment, driving collaboration across borders. With an emphasis on promoting both multilateral and bilateral economic and trade exchanges, the event highlights the growing importance of industrial investment cooperation in emerging fields like digital transformation and sustainability. It’s a celebration of open economic borders, encouraging countries to connect, share investment opportunities, and contribute to the broader vision of building an inclusive and open global economy.
A Massive Showcase of Innovation and Collaboration
Spanning an impressive 120,000 square meters, this year’s CIFIT is organized into three key thematic exhibition areas: Investment Promotion, Industrial Innovation and Development and Project Matchmaking. These areas are designed to foster direct interactions between investors, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. Attendees have the chance to engage in over 100 events, ranging from high-level discussions such as the Exchange of the Global Alliance of Special Economic Zones to the Digital Economy Matchmaking and Exchange among BRICS countries.
With over 80,000 participants and exhibitors expected across the four day event, CIFIT is poised to be one of the largest gatherings of global investors and policymakers. This year, more than 1,000 delegations from 119 countries and regions are attending the fair, with a notable 80% hailing from Belt and Road Initiative partner nations. The international scope of the event underscores its commitment to serving national and global development strategies.
A Focus on Global Collaboration and Innovation
CIFIT isn’t just about investment; it’s about creating meaningful connections across borders. One of the key highlights of this year’s event is its focus on internationalisation and its dedication to advancing major national development strategies like the Belt and Road Initiative. With over 1,000 delegations from government agencies, businesses, and investment groups from around the world, CIFIT is playing a crucial role in bringing together countries to work toward shared goals.
The event serves as a hub for innovative industrial investment, especially in the digital and green sectors. As the world moves toward digitalisation and a more sustainable future, CIFIT is leading the charge in facilitating discussions and collaborations that will shape industries for years to come.
The fair’s emphasis on digital and green investment reflects the growing importance of sustainability and technological innovation in today’s global economy. Countries and companies are looking for ways to invest in industries that not only offer financial returns but also contribute positively to global challenges like climate change and digital transformation. By providing a platform for these discussions, CIFIT is helping to push forward the agenda for a more sustainable and digitally connected world.
Hungary Takes Centre Stage as Guest of Honor
One of the most anticipated features of CIFIT 2024 is the participation of Hungary as the Guest of Honor. Located in the heart of Europe, Hungary plays a vital role as a gateway to the European Union and a key partner in the Belt and Road cooperation. In recent years, the relationship between China and Hungary has grown stronger, particularly in the realm of trade and investment.
Fujianese enterprises have played a significant role in this relationship, with many investing in Hungary, making Fujian one of Hungary’s key sources of Chinese investment. This close partnership is reflected in Hungary’s presence at the fair, where it has set up a national pavilion that spans 450 square meters.
The pavilion showcases Hungary’s unique blend of technological and cultural innovation, featuring interactive displays like touchscreens, virtual reality installations, and even a large Rubik’s cube to symbolize the country’s creativity and inventiveness. Through these exhibits, visitors are introduced to Hungary’s thriving sectors in logistics, automotive, agriculture, and more, highlighting the country’s vast investment opportunities.
Hungary’s participation in CIFIT is more than just a showcase of its economy; it’s a reflection of the close ties between the two nations and their shared vision for future cooperation. A series of themed events throughout the fair will further highlight investment opportunities in Hungary, making it a key player in the global investment landscape.
Looking Ahead: A Global Community of Development
As the 24th China International Fair for Investment and Trade unfolds, it’s clear that this event is more than just a platform for deals and partnerships. It’s a reflection of the global shift toward deeper cooperation and a shared vision for development. CIFIT is playing a critical role in fostering a world where countries work together not just for mutual benefit but for the advancement of global growth.
The fair’s emphasis on high-quality investment and its focus on digital and green industries are aligned with the broader goals of building a sustainable, open global economy. By encouraging countries to collaborate and invest in each other’s growth, CIFIT is helping to create a more interconnected, resilient world.
As we look ahead, the partnerships and collaborations formed at this year’s CIFIT will undoubtedly shape the future of global trade and investment. Whether through advancements in technology, sustainability, or international trade, CIFIT is laying the groundwork for a brighter, more inclusive global economy.
With its expansive reach and commitment to innovation, the 24th CIFIT is a powerful reminder that when countries come together to invest in one another’s future, the possibilities are endless.
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