Zhang Yan, director of the Ningbo Commission of Commerce, revealed that the demand for expo stalls has continued to rise over the past three years.

"We decided to expand the exhibition area by 3,000 square meters (in 2018) to better serve growing demand," Zhang said. "The expo will further enhance economic and trade cooperation between China and CEEC."

"Ningbo will pay closer attention in sectors such as trade, investment and culture to enhance the level of China-CEEC cooperation," Zhang said. "Ningbo will take its responsibilities and explore replicable ways for other regions in China to support 16+1 cooperation."