Digitalization of supply chain improves exhibitor-buyer communication

The ongoing China International Supply Chain Expo, the world's first national exhibition themed on supply chains, highlights the digital empowerment of supply chains.

To enhance connections between exhibitors and buyers, the expo has introduced a Business Matching Platform. Operated by the Information Centre of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT ITC), this platform incorporates technologies like cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence. It is designed to serve as a one-stop solution for global exhibition organizers, exhibitors, buyers, and service providers, simplifying and streamlining the networking process.

Once enterprises log into the system and enter details such as their company name and specific business focus areas, including digital technology, smart life, data management, etc., the system then accurately matches them with relevant buyers. It also provides the contact information of these buyers, facilitating a targeted and efficient approach to business development and networking.

"The platform's effectiveness is driven by an intelligent recommendation algorithm, supported by detailed profiling and search capabilities," an official from CCPIT ITC, responsible for overseeing the Business Matching Platform, told CGTN.

"The platform efficiently pairs exhibitors with buyers using an automatically generated docking table, which is created based on parameters including the supply chain segment, industry, and specific exhibits in which the exhibitor is located, as well as the buyer's industry and procurement needs, the official explained, adding that these criteria are crucial in ensuring successful and relevant connections between exhibitors and buyers.

Luo Jun, Deputy General Manager of Shineyue Software, an internet enterprise registered on the system, shared their experience: "The platform precisely linked us with the buyers essential for our needs and has helped advance an ongoing project."

"Recently, we needed to upgrade a digital system, and among 25 companies recommended by the platform, one perfectly matched our requirements and helped us complete the upgrade," Luo said.

The platform also keeps participants updated with timely SMS and email notifications and allows for the exchange of digital business cards, enhancing communication efficiency. Moreover, visitors and exhibitors can actively use the system to search and query, looking for exhibitors based on criteria like country, supply chain, and specific segments. They can collect information, make inquiries, set appointments online, and exchange business cards.

The effective use of the digital matching system at the expo highlights the significant role of digital technologies in enhancing supply chain management. It offers a glimpse into a future where supply chains are more than mere channels for goods and services. Instead, they are envisioned as intelligent ecosystems that drive business growth, foster innovation, and enhance customer satisfaction.