A preview of China's first-ever global import expo

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03:20

The countdown is on to what some are calling the biggest event of its kind in history. In one month, the first-ever China International Import Expo, or CIIE will descend on Shanghai.

The average exhibition area for each company is up to 100 square meters. Over the next few days, they are going to make up the exhibition area.

Staff at the National Exhibition and Convention Center preparing for any unforeseen emergency. /CGTN photo

Shao Ge, deputy general manager of security department at the National Exhibition and Convention Center told CGTN that there will be separate entry and exit points for visitors arriving by cars and those reaching via public transport. Some staff and volunteers will also be deployed to help visitors reach their desired location.

In November, hundreds of thousands of global buyers and sellers will gather here to do business. But that said, how prepared is the staff for an accident? What if a fire breaks out? What if there's a power or network failure?

Event organizers have conducted dozens of emergency drills and rehearsals since August. /CGTN photo

Feng Nan, director of the National Exhibition and Convention Center told CGTN that following a comprehensive test run, they found some problems related to cleanliness of the venues and security and evacuation routes. Now, steps are being taken to rectify these issues.

Peng Chunyan, assistant general manager of operation at the National Exhibition and Convention Center told CGTN that they will continue the drills for the remaining 30 days. Some drills will be conducted by different departments, while others will be system wide test runs.

Over the next few days participants with latest products and technologies with arrive in Shanghai. /CGTN photo

In order to make this very first event a success, the organizers, and relevant departments have come up with a series of measures to facilitate business participation, such as giving participants clearance priority and tax guarantees.

As the host city, Shanghai will work to ensure a smooth traffic flow, improve catering and hotel services for visitors, and keep the city safe. City officials want event-goers to enjoy their stay.