CIIE 2026: An eastern teacup's transcontinental tale

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At the ninth China International Import Expo in Shanghai, a British landscape fits in the palm of your hand. The teacups on display carry hand-painted scenes and delicate touches of gold, drawing on more than 200 years of British ceramic craftsmanship.

There’s a little of China in these cups, too. Chinese tea reached Britain in the 17th century, and imported Chinese porcelain gave British potters new ideas for their own designs. By the 19th century, afternoon tea had become a British ritual. Now, in Shanghai, visitors can see what British makers did with that early inspiration. #CIIE2026

British tea sets and blue vases fill a tiered display at the ninth China International Import Expo in Shanghai, China, November 5-10, 2026. /CGTN

A milk jug decorated with pink roses and a gold rim at the ninth China International Import Expo in Shanghai, China, November 5-10, 2026. /CGTN

An Aynsley teapot, cup and saucer share a floral pattern with gold trim. The box behind them marks the brand’s 250th anniversary at the ninth China International Import Expo in Shanghai, China, November 5-10, 2026. /CGTN

White flowering branches in relief wrap around two matte blue vases at the ninth China International Import Expo in Shanghai, China, November 5-10, 2026. /CGTN

A plate with an ornate turquoise border stands behind matching and contrasting teacups at the ninth China International Import Expo in Shanghai, China, November 5-10, 2026. /CGTN

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