Summary of Key Points
The 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in 2026 is approaching, and the "Shanghai Conference Activities," which serve as an extension to the CIIE, are entering their third year. Zhou Hanmin, a member of the Standing Committee of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), suggests that this year's events should highlight artificial intelligence (AI) and focus on six major topics: opening up to the outside world and Chinese companies going global. Through a deep exchange framework featuring "two-way interaction," these activities aim to showcase China's AI achievements and promote trade innovation, openness, and inclusiveness. The past two sessions have attracted nearly 17,000 participants, leading to over 160 cooperation outcomes. This year's goal is to integrate AI seamlessly into all aspects of the events, helping Chinese companies transition from "going out" to "going in" (i.e., expanding their presence overseas), while continuing to fulfill China's commitment of zero tariffs for the least developed countries and stabilizing the global economy.
I. Shanghai Conference Activities: The "Extension Partner" of the CIIE, with Outstanding Achievements in the Past Two Years
The Shanghai Conference Activities are a complementary component of the CIIE and the Hongqiao Economic Forum, focusing on three main objectives: supporting national strategies, enhancing the impact of the CIIE, and highlighting Shanghai's unique features. The past two years have seen remarkable results:
- High Attendance: Nearly 17,000 people participated, with more than half being foreign guests, including 400 high-ranking individuals from foreign governments and multinational companies.
- Targeted Engagement: Over 50% of the participants were exhibitors at the CIIE, and 40% of the events were small-scale gatherings for no more than 50 people, with 60% featuring roundtable discussions for in-depth exchanges.
- Numerous Outcomes: A total of over 160 cooperation agreements were reached, with many overseas companies evolving from simply participating to becoming organizers or even exhibitors themselves.
II. This Year's Six Major Topics: Addressing Global Economic Challenges and Priorities
This year's conference themes are more forward-looking, focusing on six issues of global concern:
1. Opening Up to the Outside World: 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of China's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO); openness has transformed China's economy and provided momentum for the world.
2. Chinese Companies Going Global: Chinese companies have evolved from merely selling products (e.g., Huawei, Haier) to becoming deeply integrated in global markets (e.g., Geely's acquisition of Volvo, ByteDance's international expansion). The focus is on how they can effectively enter new markets.
3. Trade Innovation: This includes not only technological advancements but also innovations in business concepts and management practices.
4. Green Development: Emphasizing carbon peak and neutrality goals, the discussions cover energy transition, greening of factories, and promoting low-carbon lifestyles for consumers.
5. Consumer Potential: Consumption is one of the key drivers of economic growth; the CIIE serves as a platform for foreign companies to sell goods and Chinese buyers to access essential products.
6. Artificial Intelligence: This year, AI has made significant progress—China has moved from being dependent on imported technologies to developing its own advanced models, which will be showcased in practical applications.
III. AI as a Key Focus: Integrating Power Subtly
Zhou Hanmin recommends integrating AI into all aspects of the CIIE activities in a meaningful way:
- AI for On-site Services: Use AI for real-time translation (multiple languages) to remove language barriers, and employ humanoid robots for guidance and consultation.
- Promoting Domestic AI: Showcase Chinese AI products globally while introducing advanced foreign technologies to facilitate the import and adoption of these solutions.
- Standard Cooperation: Collaborate with the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) to establish common standards and align industries, turning technological advantages into market strengths.
IV. Deep Exchanges: More Than Just Business Discussions
The conferences are about genuine interaction:
- Two-Way Engagement: Foreign participants not only sell products but also exchange industry insights with Chinese counterparts; Chinese participants learn about trade rules.
- Integration with the CIIE: Over 50% of the guests are exhibitors from the CIIE, ensuring a seamless connection between the conferences and the exhibition itself.
- Result-Oriented: Each conference aims to produce concrete outcomes, such as cooperation agreements and solutions.
V. Openness and Inclusiveness: China's Large Import Volume Benefits Everyone
China's import volume reached 18.5 trillion yuan last year and exceeded 10 trillion yuan in the first half of this year (a record for the same period). This not only contributes to China's own development but also benefits the world:
- Zero-Tariff Policy: All imported goods from least developed countries that have established diplomatic relations are exempt from tariffs. China has also created dedicated exhibition areas to promote their products.
- Stabilizing the Global Economy: As globalization faces challenges, China has remained the world's second-largest import market for 17 consecutive years. The CIIE plays a crucial role in stabilizing the global economy—more Chinese imports mean a more stable global market.
In summary, this year's Shanghai Conference Activities will highlight China's AI capabilities while addressing real economic issues and demonstrating its commitment to openness, ensuring that all participants benefit from these events.