Core Insights - The upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE) presents a significant opportunity for South African exporters to access China's vast consumer market, valued in trillions of RMB [1][2] - South African councils, including the South African Footwear and Leather Export Council (SAFLEC) and the South African Fruit and Vegetable Canning Export Council (SAFVCEC), emphasize the importance of the expo for market access and collaboration with major Chinese e-commerce platforms [1][2] Group 1: Participation and Opportunities - South Africa will lead 32 companies to the CIIE, aiming to promote high-value-added products in the Chinese market [2] - The SAFLEC, with 252 member companies, highlights the expo as a unique opportunity to connect with buyers, distributors, and retailers that are typically hard to reach [1] - The SAFVCEC views the CIIE as a crucial platform for gathering market information, understanding competitive dynamics, and identifying emerging consumer trends [1] Group 2: Trade Relations - China has been South Africa's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years, while South Africa has been China's largest trading partner in Africa for 15 years [2] - In 2024, bilateral trade between China and South Africa is expected to account for nearly 20% of total China-Africa trade [2]

Group 1 - The 22nd China (Luohe) Food Expo showcases over 1,000 specialty products from more than 50 companies across 12 countries, indicating strong international interest in the Chinese market [1] - French red wine is highlighted as having significant long-term potential in China, with increasing consumer interest [1] - Thai food products, particularly durian products and Tom Yum soup, are gaining popularity among Chinese consumers, with successful sales through e-commerce platforms [1][2] Group 2 - Malaysia is the guest country at the expo, presenting over 500 specialty food items, with many brands already entering major Chinese supermarkets [2] - The implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is expected to enhance food cooperation between Malaysia and China [2] - The Belarusian pavilion features over 100 products across six categories, including dairy, juices, and snacks, with a focus on direct shipping and quick delivery to Luohe [4][5] Group 3 - Belarus has signed agency agreements with 14 companies, amounting to orders worth $1 million, showcasing the demand for its products in China [5] - The establishment of the Belarus Economic and Trade Representative Office in Luohe aims to facilitate trade and cultural exchanges between Belarus and China [5] - The Belarus brand pavilion serves as a platform for trade and investment, promoting opportunities for Chinese food companies to expand into the CIS and Central Eastern European markets [5]