- Over 2,500 enterprises from 70+ countries join the 9th China-South Asia Expo.
- Innovation zones spotlight smart manufacturing and green tech.
- Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh gain global exposure through strong product showings.
The 9th China-South Asia Expo, held in Kunming, China, brings together countries across South and Southeast Asia under the theme “Solidarity and Cooperation for Common Development.”
Beyond trade showcases, the event is becoming a hub for new technology and sustainable collaboration. Cutting-edge advancements such as humanoid robots and digital solutions are displayed alongside traditional products like Vietnam’s cashew nuts and Sri Lanka’s tea and wood carvings.
From Cashews to Robotics: 2025 China-South Asia Expo Highlights Innovation and Regional Trade Growth
This year’s China-South Asia Expo has seen unprecedented participation, with over 942 international enterprises and 1,568 Chinese companies showcasing a mix of traditional and modern industries. The event’s scale reflects China’s strategic focus on building stronger regional ties through platforms that encourage cooperation and access to its vast domestic market.
Vietnam’s presence stood out with 70 companies presenting products ranging from coffee and pepper to wooden furniture and cassava. Their booths attracted international attention, especially for their high-quality agricultural exports. The participation was facilitated by proactive efforts from local trade offices like the one in Lào Cai province, emphasizing logistics and cooperation deals with China.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are using the expo to promote first-time exhibitors and small businesses. These countries view the event as a gateway to introduce local goods to a wider audience, in line with national efforts to strengthen global economic engagement. For example, Bangladesh focused on its twine and yarn products while Sri Lanka spotlighted artisan goods and tea.
The expo’s tech and industrial zones have become focal points, with firms like Yunnan Tin Group presenting breakthroughs in materials crucial for electronics and aerospace. Australian businesses also joined the expo for the first time, highlighting the event’s growing reach and its role as a bridge for Oceania and ASEAN trade initiatives.
The 2025 China-South Asia Expo underscores a shift toward inclusive growth—melding innovation with traditional industries—while advancing regional integration and economic diplomacy across Asia.
“China is a great market for us… It’s a great opportunity for us,” — Arun Hemachandra, Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
