Beijing hosted the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) 2025, drawing strong global participation and positioning the event as a major platform for showcasing international cooperation, open markets, and innovation in the services sector.
Strong International Presence
This year’s CIFTIS saw participation from over 500 global organizations and companies across more than 80 countries and regions. Twenty-seven international organizations and overseas business associations joined, including the World Trade Organization (WTO), the International Trade Centre (ITC), and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
Numerous overseas enterprises, including Siemens, Intel, and Accenture, showcased their latest services and technological solutions. The event also welcomed official delegations from ASEAN, the European Union, and countries across Africa and Latin America, underscoring CIFTIS’s growing global influence.
Focus on Open Markets and Free Trade
Speakers highlighted China’s role in advancing openness and cooperation in the services trade. Senior officials emphasized that CIFTIS reflects China’s commitment to high-standard opening-up and fostering win-win partnerships.
The Ministry of Commerce reiterated that China will continue expanding market access, improving transparency in rules and regulations, and promoting digital trade facilitation. At the fair, several policy measures were announced to simplify cross-border services transactions and strengthen global partnerships.
Innovation and Emerging Sectors
The fair spotlighted innovation across multiple industries. Dedicated forums covered artificial intelligence, green development, financial services, healthcare, and cultural exchange. Companies presented case studies on how digital platforms and cutting-edge technologies are transforming trade in services.
For instance, Chinese firms demonstrated solutions in cloud computing, fintech, telemedicine, and smart logistics. International exhibitors contributed with advanced innovations in energy efficiency, sustainability, and AI-driven business models.
Deals and Cooperation Agreements
More than 400 cooperation agreements were signed during the fair, ranging from digital economy partnerships to cultural and tourism exchanges. Notably, several multinational companies committed to expanding their R&D operations and service hubs in China.
These agreements are expected to boost bilateral trade and investment flows while strengthening supply chain resilience. Many deals also emphasized sustainability, with initiatives focused on green finance, renewable energy, and low-carbon development.
Cultural Exchange and Public Participation
CIFTIS 2025 also highlighted cultural exchange. Events showcased traditional Chinese culture alongside international art, music, and cuisine. Exhibits created opportunities for the public to engage directly with services innovation, making the fair both a business and cultural event.
Public visitors could explore immersive experiences in healthcare, smart city solutions, and creative design, underscoring the fair’s role in connecting everyday life with global services innovation.
China’s Role in Global Services Trade
Services trade now accounts for more than 40% of China’s foreign trade, and the country remains the world’s second-largest services trader. CIFTIS continues to reinforce China’s ambition to be at the forefront of international trade liberalization and innovation.
The fair not only reflects China’s market size and demand but also provides a gateway for global companies to collaborate with Chinese partners. Industry experts stressed that CIFTIS serves as a vital platform for promoting multilateralism and advancing global economic recovery.
