Mexican firms eye CIIE to help expansion in China

SHANGHAI - Mexico, a major global food and beverage exporter, will showcase 28 food brands and 10 companies from the service sector at the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) to be held in Shanghai in November, Mexican trade officers have said.

In a space of 400 square meters, the companies will exhibit products such as fresh and processed foods, as well as services in sectors such as logistics, transportation and education.

Most of the products and services are new to the Chinese market, according to Alejandro Salas, the trade and investment commissioner of ProMexico Shanghai. ProMexico is a Mexican governmental agency in charge of promoting domestic exports and attracting overseas investments.

"ProMexico, as a promotion agency, is quite excited about CIIE," Salas told Xinhua. He said the event is a clear message about the huge demands in China and an opportunity for companies interested in the lucrative market.

Salas said he has witnessed the increasing trade between China and Mexico since he became the commissioner in 2015. China is Mexico's second largest trading partner. Last year, exports from Mexico to China grew by 24.2 percent.

"Given the challenges, like language or distance, Mexico's exporters are not familiar with the business potential that China can bring to them," Salas said. "We hope that Mexican companies can better understand the potential of China through CIIE."

The event is also expected to help Mexican companies become more known in China and enhance ties with the Chinese market, he noted.

Chantal Abrajan Pena, deputy trade and investment commissioner of ProMexico Shanghai, hopes the country's food industry can expand further in the Chinese market.

"As the biggest supplier of avocados in the world, we'll bring agri-products like avocado oil to CIIE this year, which is likely to be a big seller in China," Pena said, adding that she expects Mexican berry chia seeds and other healthy foods will be welcomed by Chinese consumers as they look for fresher and more nutritious food.

"This time we'll stick to our strengths and showcase our rich culture, high-quality foods, and fresh and healthy products to Chinese consumers. For future CIIE events, we will include other sectors and players from Mexico," Salas told Xinhua.

He believes that CIIE will be a new bridge that links Mexico with China and help both sides be more aware of the benefits of greater and deeper cooperation.