The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) will be held in Shanghai from November 5 to 10, China's Ministry of Commerce announced at a press conference in Beijing on Wednesday. 

The event will cover over 420,000 square meters, welcoming participants from 152 countries and various international organizations. A total of 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders will be present at the business exhibition, with a new materials zone set to debut this year, showcasing cutting-edge products, technologies, and services.

The Hongqiao International Economic Forum will be held concurrently, featuring a main forum alongside 19 thematic sub-forums, providing an essential platform for in-depth discussions on global economic trends and policy coordination.

The first six CIIEs saw the debut of nearly 2,500 new products, technologies, and services, with the cumulative value of intended transactions surpassing $420 billion, Tang Wenhong, assistant minister of commerce, said at the press conference.

As a result of the expo, foreign companies have established new stores, factories, and research and development centers in China, Tang added. 

Additionally, this year's CIIE will feature exhibitors from 37 least-developed countries and over 120 complimentary booths will be provided to support their participation.