In Ningbo, a bustling port city in eastern China, a significant trade and investment event is currently underway, attracting businesses from Central and Eastern European countries (CEECs) and beyond. The 4th China-CEEC Expo & International Consumer Goods Fair is aimed at strengthening economic ties and unlocking new opportunities in one of the world's most dynamic markets. With Slovenia serving as the Guest of Honor this year, expectations run high among entrepreneurs and investors alike. Urska Bencina, undersecretary at SPIRIT Slovenia Business Development Agency, emphasized the appeal of the Chinese market, citing its vast potential despite geographical distances.

Over the course of five days, the expo has brought together 435 companies from the CEEC region and beyond, showcasing a range of signature products and cutting-edge technologies. These companies are eager to secure new orders and establish partnerships. Bencina noted the strong presence of research and development firms enthusiastic about finding collaborators. Her agency has been participating in the expo since its inception, with positive feedback from other exhibitors and tangible successes in forging new business deals highlighting the event's effectiveness.

Among the exhibitors are companies with varying degrees of experience in the Chinese market. For many, this event represents an important opportunity to demonstrate confidence in China's vast consumer landscape. Spirit Company S.R.O. is among the newcomers planning to enter the market. Igor Lakatos expressed optimism at the expo, emphasizing its role in connecting companies with potential distributors and allowing for direct product demonstrations.

As the Guest Country of Honor, Slovakia has sent over 20 companies to showcase its unique products, enhancing economic ties with China. For those already engaged with the Chinese market, the expo serves as a valuable platform to deepen connections and explore expansion opportunities. Erik Dorusinec, head sommelier from Matysak, a notable Slovak winery, highlighted the dual aims of finding new contracts and expanding the portfolio of offerings, including potentially introducing grape juice into the market.

Pavlou Christos, the marketing director of the East China region at Greek company Zachanas Winery S.A., noted that despite his company not being from the CEEC, the expo's organization and quality have made it a worthwhile investment. His positive experience reinforces the event's relevance not just for CEEC countries but as an expanding international trade platform.

The current expo marks a shift towards a broader 'China-CEEC+' framework, incorporating participants from France, Germany, and Britain. This expansion underlines the expo's growing significance as a bridge for international economic and trade cooperation beyond the original CEEC focus. In addition to consumer goods, the event is showcasing high-tech solutions that support green development and industrial innovation.

Companies are eager to pursue sustainable practices and technological advancements. Robert Demko from SUN Powered Systems, a Slovak company, expressed the need for quality cables for photovoltaic machines focused on agricultural applications. His remarks resonate with this year's expo theme, 'New Visions for the Future,' which reflects a collective ambition among participants to foster high-quality cooperation.

Richard Rasi, chairman of the Slovak National Council, articulated the expo's purpose, remarking that it serves not only as a marketplace but also as a foundation for shared ambitions and trust, supporting future cooperation. This sentiment encapsulates the optimism and collaborative spirit evident at the expo as businesses from various countries explore the opportunities available in one of the globe's most promising markets.