LINYI, CHINA – 27 June 2025 – The 4th RCEP (Shandong) Import Expo officially opened in Linyi, Shandong province on June 27, serving as a dynamic platform for regional economic collaboration, trade promotion, and technological innovation. This year's event brings together 348 enterprises from 66 countries and regions, including key participants from Cambodia, Malaysia, South Korea, and Japan, under the framework of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

Global Participation and Expansive Exhibition

Held across an exhibition space of 35,000 square meters with 1,200 international-standard booths, the expo welcomed over 15,000 visitors on its opening day. Among the participants are:

  • 179 companies from RCEP countries
  • Enterprises from 51 Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations
  • Representatives from various international trade associations

This diverse representation is designed to foster cross-border business connections and unlock new avenues for economic development across Asia and beyond.

Showcasing Technology, Innovation and Industry Leaders

New thematic zones introduced this year include:

  • Smart Technology Zone
  • Multinational Corporations Area

These segments feature global innovators such as Tesla, Unitree Robotics (known for its humanoid robots), and Fortune 500 giants like CP Group and Amazon. The expo has become a strategic venue for unveiling emerging technologies, advanced manufacturing, and market-ready innovations from around the world.

Voices from Southeast Asia: Strong Prospects for Collaboration

Speaking at the event, Princess Norodom Jenna of the Cambodian Royal Family praised Linyi’s advanced logistics and vibrant trade environment:

“I hope to see more collaboration between Linyi and Cambodia, especially in areas like specialty trade and e-commerce. It would be great to bring more Cambodian products here to Linyi, and at the same time, help Linyi’s goods reach Cambodia through the BRI,” added Princess Jenna.

Trade Growth with RCEP Economies on the Rise

Linyi’s position within the RCEP bloc has contributed to its robust trade performance. In 2024, the city recorded 78.65 billion yuan (USD 10.95 billion) in trade with RCEP member countries—a 9.7% year-on-year increase, accounting for 46.5% of its total imports and exports.

This momentum reflects Linyi’s strategic role in supporting China’s engagement with regional economies through both RCEP and the Belt and Road Initiative. The expo continues to reinforce the city’s reputation as a gateway for international cooperation, supply chain innovation, and sustainable economic growth.