Shanghai, China - Over 30 Tunisian companies are participating in the sixth edition of the China International Import Expo (CIIE), taking place from November 5 to 10 in Shanghai. This event marks a significant opportunity for Tunisian businesses to expand their presence in the Chinese market.

According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, which is leading the Tunisian delegation for the second consecutive year, the business trip is organized in collaboration with the Tunisian Embassy in Beijing, the Chinese Embassy in Tunisia, the Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (FIPA), and the Office National Tunisian Tourism (ONTT). Tunisian companies, operating in various sectors such as food products, tourism, cosmetics, and health products, are showcasing their offerings in a 136 square meter pavilion.

The CIIE is regarded as one of the most important business events globally. It provides a platform for developing countries like Tunisia to directly market their products to major Chinese suppliers. These suppliers are keen to enhance their foreign trade and strengthen investment relationships. The expo is expected to attract participants from 154 countries, regions, and international organizations, with over 3,400 exhibitors and approximately 394,000 visitors.

Trade between Tunisia and China has been flourishing, with the volume reaching around $763 million in the first four months of 2023, marking an annual increase of 12.5%. Additionally, there has been a significant rise in Chinese tourism to Tunisia. The number of Chinese tourists visiting Tunisia grew 4.5 times, from 7,000 in 2017 to 32,000 in 2019.

In a strategic move to further boost Chinese tourism, Tunisia has recently implemented a visa exemption policy for Chinese tourists. This policy aims to facilitate easier travel for Chinese visitors, potentially increasing tourism revenue for Tunisia.