Core Insights - The "Belt and Road" Customs Food Safety Cooperation Mechanism has expanded to 18 member countries as of October 15, 2023, following the signing of the "Belt and Road" Customs Food Safety Cooperation Mechanism Charter by representatives from 11 countries at the conference in Shanghai [1][2] - The conference focused on enhancing international cooperation in food safety, addressing new challenges, and promoting trade security and convenience [1] - China’s food trade with "Belt and Road" countries reached 915.24 billion yuan in the first nine months of 2023, marking a 2.5% year-on-year increase, indicating a diversification in trade [2] Group 1 - The "Belt and Road" Customs Food Safety Cooperation Mechanism aims to deepen international cooperation and enhance trade safety [1] - The "Silk Road Food Safety" information platform was launched to facilitate cooperation among member countries [1] - The mechanism's development reflects a growing global recognition of food safety governance principles [2] Group 2 - Four key initiatives were proposed by the head of the General Administration of Customs, emphasizing the importance of legal compliance, scientific regulation, shared responsibility across the food supply chain, and mutual benefits for global consumers [2] - Belarus, as a new member, expressed commitment to sharing food safety regulatory experiences and reducing trade barriers [2] - The ongoing expansion of the mechanism is expected to foster increased bilateral food trade among member countries [2]

Core Viewpoint - The visit of the Chinese Customs delegation to Namibia, Mozambique, and Madagascar aims to enhance cooperation in customs, agricultural trade, and food safety mechanisms under the Belt and Road Initiative [1] Group 1: Cooperation Initiatives - The delegation engaged with officials from customs, agriculture, economy, and health sectors in the three countries to discuss the development of smart customs, "single window" systems, capacity building, and anti-smuggling enforcement [1] - Agreements were signed, including a customs cooperation memorandum and protocols for agricultural product imports to China [1] Group 2: Trade and Safety Mechanisms - The discussions included strengthening agricultural product trade cooperation and inviting the three countries to join the Belt and Road customs food safety cooperation mechanism [1] - The delegation conducted on-site inspections at import and export enterprises and customs supervision sites, and held Q&A sessions with businesses [1]