25 Sri Lankan companies exhibit their products at the 4th China International Import Expo 2021 (CIIE)

Nov 09, Colombo: According to the Embassy of Sri Lanka in China, 25 Sri Lankan Companies are exhibiting their products at the 4th International Import Expo 2021 (CIIE) which is being held in Shanghai at the moment.

President Xi Jinping spoke virtually at the formal high-level opening of the Expo. Nineteen companies are participating at the food and beverages section, one company is exhibiting its products at the consumer products section but only five at the glittering gem and jewellery section. Laksala is exhibiting its products for the first time at this Expo.

The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to China Dr. Palitha Kohona ceremonially declared open the food and beverage section and the gem and jewellery section.

Speaking at the opening ceremony the Ambassador said that the CIIE provides an exceptional opportunity for Sri Lankan companies to showcase their products to the massive and lucrative Chinese consumer market. He further said that this provided a clear opportunity for Sri Lanka to reduce the trade gap between the two countries and the private sector had to play a significant role. Currently, the trade balance is in favor of China by a massive margin. He thanked the companies who exhibited their products at the Expo overcoming considerable difficulties, in particular, pandemic related restrictions. He encouraged more Sri Lankan companies to participate at the next Expo in 2022 under the leadership of the EDB.

Ceylon Tea, spices, coconut and coir products, organic dehydrated fruits, organic fruit products, organic bee honey, personal care and wellness products, kithul products, sesame, tomato sauce, chili sauce, fish sauce, chili and garlic sauce, sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise, oyster sauce, BBQ sauce, biscuits and other confectionaries were showcased at the food and beverage section. In addition, beverages of the Lion Brewery were also displayed. Five companies and Laksala were present at the Gems and Jewelry Section.

Many countries, recognizing the value of the Chinese market, had expended considerable sums and energy on creating attractive displays. The crowds were automatically drawn to these. The potential is considerable for Ceylon Tea, gems and jewelry, coconut products, etc. to be effectively promoted at future CIIEs.

Ambassador Kohona thanked the Foreign Ministry of Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Consulate General in Shanghai, and the Sri Lanka Export Development Board for facilitating Sri Lanka’s participation. He also appreciated the contribution made by CSLATE, Laksala, the Sri Lanka Tea Board, and the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Authority, and the private companies to enhance Sri Lanka’s presence at the Expo. He requested all relevant parties to work together to make this Expo a success for Sri Lanka.