Chinese air carrier signs record-value deals at CIIE

China Eastern Air Holding Co Ltd has signed more than $2.5 billion of procurement orders so far at the ongoing 7th China International Import Expo, or CIIE, with at least $2.8 billion of deals expected to have been inked by the end of the event, setting a company record in contract value, according to the Shanghai-based carrier.

"As many as 19 procurement agreements would be inked during the event between China Eastern and 18 companies from 10 countries and regions, including France, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, Canada, the US, Switzerland, Turkiye, and Singapore," said Wang Zhiqing, chairman of China Eastern Airlines, during a procurement signing ceremony on Wednesday.

With a combined value of more than $2.8 billion, the procured products covered eight categories, including aircraft engines, flight simulators, aviation materials, communication services, and fresh food, said Wang.

"The CIIE displays China's resolution in further opening-up, which offers global companies great opportunities in exploring the China market," said Wang.

The record-setting procurements are driven by rising demand for aviation services and in-flight meals created from the steady rise in inbound and outbound air travel.

China Eastern currently operates about 1,373 flights to destinations beyond the Chinese mainland on a weekly basis, about 102 percent of the weekly total in 2019, according to China Eastern.

In addition to making procurement orders related to its core business, China Eastern also signed orders with Canada's Benson Lobster Inc to import Boston lobsters for Chinese consumers.