China-South Asia Expo kicks off, spotlighting trade, innovation and regional connectivity

The ninth China-South Asia Expo opened on Thursday in Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, with a focus on strengthening trade ties, fostering innovation and deepening regional cooperation.

Held under the theme "Solidarity and Coordination for Common Development," the five-day event has attracted participants from more than 70 countries and international organizations, including full representation from all South and Southeast Asian nations. This year, Sri Lanka is featured as the guest of honor.

"China is a great market for us. We've brought products ranging from wood carvings and tea to various ornaments," said Arun Hemachandra, Sri Lanka's deputy minister of foreign affairs and foreign employment. 

"There's a new government in Sri Lanka now, and we are supporting small startups to enter the international arena. Many of the exhibitors here are attending for the first time. It's a great opportunity for us."

Across the expansive expo pavilions, exhibitors from the region are engaging in business matchmaking, showcasing their products and exploring new partnerships.

Alimuzzaman, an exhibitor from Bangladesh, is attending the event for the first time.  

"We are selling high-quality yarns and twines. My expectations are high. I think we'll get a lot of buyers from people who understand our quality and the size of our company," he told CGTN.

While traditional products remain a major draw, this year's expo also places a strong emphasis on innovation. Specialized zones highlight advancements in smart manufacturing, digital technologies and green development, reflecting the region's evolving industrial landscape.

One of the key exhibitors is Kunming-based Yunnan Tin Group, the world's leading enterprise in tin and indium production. These metals are essential components in industries such as electronics, smart manufacturing and aerospace.

"Our main goal in participating in this expo is to showcase our journey of innovation in tin and indium, while also demonstrating our group's role and influence as a global leader driving innovation across the entire industrial chain," said Zhang Bojie, a representative of the group.

International guests hope that this year's gathering will help align development strategies and unlock new momentum for shared growth in the region.

"China is a close friend of Bangladesh. For a very long time, China has a lot of investments in our country. And the new interim government has also given a lot of opportunities for foreign investors," said Mohammad Foyshol Azad, chairman of the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh under the Ministry of Commerce.

He said investors have the opportunity to invest in the agriculture and other industrial sectors, such as the ready-made garments sector.  

"We hope that in the future, the collaboration between the China Bangladesh will be even stronger and more friendly," said Azad.

The Maldives' ambassador to China, Fazeel Najeeb, echoed the sentiment. He noted that bilateral trade is expected to rise following the recent implementation of a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.

"I think this expo provides immense opportunity for all South Asian countries to have their presence in China in terms of market share, and also have connectivity possibilities for networking with the rest of the South Asian countries," said Najeeb.

As the host province, Yunnan plays a strategic role in linking China with its southern neighbors. Local officials hope the expo will further cement its position as a gateway to South and Southeast Asia, driving greater connectivity, cooperation and shared prosperity.