Tapping into opportunities at China's trade shows

Trade fairs in China provide a great opportunity for businesses to make contacts, gain market intelligence, buy or sell products and services, and learn about new innovations and technical developments in China. Given the upcoming AEC, this month’s CAEXPO will have given those attending the opportunity to meet potential partners and find out about new developments in other Asean countries.

These events usually draw big crowds – this year there were more than 2300 companies from China and Asean in attendance. 

The Chinese sections are always of interest as competition is fierce and buyers can often find great new sources of products. It is also an opportunity to learn about new innovations – highlights this year included new energy-driven technologies, green household appliances and new building materials. The Asean section featured a broad range of products including food, arts and crafts, furniture and raw materials such as rubber, palm oil and mineral products. 

In recent years countries from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam have been enthusiastic participants at CAEXPO, with the President of Myanmar leading a delegation from that country last year and large contingents from Vietnam and Laos attending the events. This year more than 100 Vietnamese companies attended, the most of any Asean country.

Singapore and Malaysia are also very active in their support for CAEXPO. 

Every year the Singapore Business Federation arranges business matching and ensures that Singapore’s strong points are put forward, such as professional services, education, science and technology and logistics. 

Similarly the Malaysia External Trade Development Corp encourages as many Malaysian companies as possible to attend, highlighting Malaysian strengths such as health and wellness and technology.

Last year’s Thai delegation to CAEXPO was led by the Prime Minister, while this year it was headed by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister General Thanasak Patimaprakorn. After the event he visited Beijing and met with Thai business people to share key learnings and insights.

CAEXPO really is unique. It is not only a springboard to the Chinese market but it also provides a convenient gateway between China and Asean and between Asean countries. Let’s hope for a prominent Thai presence in 2015, the year of the AEC.

Later this month there will be another important milestone for Asean and China – negotiations to enhance the Asean-China FTA. The agreement is expected to forge closer ties between Asean and China and extend cooperation in every direction – including trade in goods, services and investment – with the aim of doubling Asean-China trade to US $1 trillion by 2020.

For more columns in this series please visit www.bangkokbank.com

 

For more columns in this series please see www.bangkokbank.com