CIIE offers new opportunities for veteran Ningbo importer

The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) officially kicked off on Nov 5, and Zhang Peng, general manager of Ningbo Free Trade Zone ASEAN International Trade Co Ltd, who has participated in the expo seven times already, is eagerly anticipating his annual rendezvous with global openness.

Arriving in Shanghai a day prior to the expo, Zhang quickly got involved in productive discussions with representatives from a Slovakian robotics company at the Slovakia-Shanghai Economic and Trade Matching Event.

Adding to his excitement is the recently announced strategic partnership between China and Slovakia. This timely coincidence with the expo opens up new avenues for trade opportunities for importers like him.

"Now, our shopping list can include fresh Slovakian products," Zhang said, expressing his delight at Slovakia becoming his "second home".

A native of Hunan born in the 1980s, Zhang first visited Slovakia during an internship in Serbia while studying at Nanjing University of Science and Technology. After completing his studies in 2007, he worked in Slovakia, specializing in the sale of bearings for automotive pumps.

In 2014, Zhang returned to China to explore new markets for his company's China branch and attended Ningbo's first Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) Specialty Commodities Exhibition. This experience forged a strong connection between him and Ningbo. Observing the surge in CEEC products entering the Chinese market, he saw an opportunity to import local specialties to cater to China's evolving consumer demands.

Zhang's import business flourished following Shanghai's hosting of its first CIIE in 2018. His product offerings have expanded from Slovakian crystals to Czech beer, honey cakes, and chocolates. He has also ventured into online retail and has helped other importers distribute their products.

At CIIE, Zhang has consistently showcased innovative products and expanded his sales channels. With the impending visa-free policy for Slovakian passport holders entering China, he anticipates even more opportunities for bilateral exchanges and industrial cooperation. At this year's CIIE, Zhang hopes that Slovakian products will steal the spotlight, particularly the bespoke crystal vase from his partner factory.