Western China International Expo Attracts Over 3,000 Companies, Boosting Regional Economic Growth
Western China hosts international expo attracting over 3,000 companies, showcasing global business opportunities.
The 20th edition of the Western China International Fair (WCIF) officially commenced on Sunday in Chengdu, the bustling capital of Sichuan Province. This year’s event has drawn more than 3,000 companies hailing from 62 nations and regions, as it seeks to accelerate economic ties, promote innovation, and foster international collaboration across sectors.
For the first time in the fair’s history, two guest countries of honor are featured: Laos and Hungary. The Laos pavilion shines a spotlight on traditional products including tea, coffee, furniture, and meticulously crafted handicrafts, emphasizing the nation's rich cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Hungary is showcasing the innovative edge of its economy with 17 companies presenting specialties ranging from premium wines and advanced medical devices to sustainable water treatment solutions.
According to Lao Deputy Prime Minister Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune, the WCIF represents a crucial platform for business matchmaking and investment cooperation. The gathering is designed to enhance information exchange and promote deeper integration of regional commodity markets. “This fair not only opens up new opportunities for businesses from Laos and other participating countries, but also strengthens connectivity and collective growth,” he emphasized during the opening ceremony.
The fair’s diverse range of exhibitors underscores its global appeal. Among them is Indonesian entrepreneur Fransisca Pauline Tjandra, who is making her debut at the event with a collection of handmade accessories. She is conducting interactive workshops, where attendees can learn about Indonesian handicraft techniques such as creating shell necklaces. “To attend the fair, I even learned some basic Chinese, like ‘nihao’ (hello), ‘xiexie’ (thanks) and ‘Duoshaoqian?’ (How much?),” Tjandra shared, reflecting the fair’s spirit of cross-cultural exchange.
In addition to cultural displays and artisanal crafts, cutting-edge technological innovations are at the forefront of the exhibition halls. Companies from China and abroad are unveiling smart devices, eco-friendly solutions, and digital advancements that signal the increasing momentum of western China as a hub for scientific and industrial development.
Hosted by the Sichuan provincial government, the WCIF will run through Thursday, offering participants a window into the rapidly evolving business landscape of western China and providing myriad opportunities for networking, partnership, and discovery.
