The 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), held in Hainan, again showed China’s strength as a top market for international brands. This year’s event brought together more than 4,100 brands from 71 countries and regions. The strong turnout shows growing global interest in China’s large and changing consumer market.
The United Kingdom was the guest country of honor, with 27 companies representing fashion, beauty, and other industries. Well-known brands like Burberry and Bentley presented their new products, focusing on green technology and sustainable practices.
Douglas Alexander, UK Minister of State for Business and Trade, said, “China’s economy has shown impressive progress in digital tech, life sciences, and green energy. These areas create strong prospects for both our countries.” He also spoke about the UK’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its business ties with China.
Josie Zhang, President of Burberry Greater China, said the expo is key for foreign companies wanting to connect with local partners. She shared, “Working closely with partners here helps us find new market openings and grow together.”
Slovakia made its first appearance with a national pavilion. Andrea Jancekova, CEO of Truscada, highlighted the expo’s worldwide draw. “You meet people from everywhere,” she noted.
Slovak Deputy Prime Minister Denisa Saková talked about the growing business between Slovakia and China. “China is one of our most important trading partners outside the EU. The rising trade figures show how strong our relationship is,” she said.
Japan’s Eda Livestock Co., Ltd. joined as a newcomer, bringing premium Wagyu beef to the expo. Chief Operating Officer Rei Tanaka said, “We plan to set up a foreign trade office in Hainan to start in China.” This was the company’s first time at CICPE.
Luxury brands made their mark this year. Richemont’s TimeVallée appeared as an independent exhibitor. LVMH and Kering Group brands also returned, showing their belief in China’s luxury market.
Nancy Liu, president of DFS China, pointed out that luxury buyers in China tend to be much younger compared to other countries. “That gives us a big chance,” she said. DFS now offers services designed for these young shoppers.
Beyond luxury goods, sectors like cars and tech are now seeing China as a place for research and new ideas, not just sales.
The Hainan Provincial Bureau of International Economic Development, a co-organizer of the expo, said that this year introduced special sections for artificial intelligence and the low-altitude economy. These new areas featured the latest products and technology from leading global companies.
Su Bahong, vice president of Volkswagen Group China, shared, “Since 2020, Volkswagen has invested over 10 billion euros in China. We opened our largest research and development center outside Germany here in 2023. This shows China is becoming a global center for new technology.”
