On June 18, 2025, a significant campaign promoting the fruits of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was inaugurated in Nanning, the capital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China. This event attracted numerous attendees and celebrated the introduction of ASEAN fruits into the Chinese market.

Chen Gang, secretary of the Communist Party of China in Guangxi, was present and delivered a keynote address, emphasizing that Guangxi is known as China's "fruit platter." He reiterated the region's critical role as not only the leading fruit-producing area in China but also as a strategic entry point for ASEAN fruits.

In his remarks, Chen highlighted the campaign's importance in enhancing trade relations and facilitating the flow of quality products from countries involved in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). He stressed that this initiative aims to promote cultural tourism, cross-border e-commerce, and ultimately seeks to deepen economic integration between China and ASEAN.

Chen also expressed support for collaborative efforts to improve infrastructure connectivity and establish efficient import-export processes that would broaden market opportunities for fruit trading between China and ASEAN nations.

The event featured vibrant displays of fruits from ASEAN member countries and underscored the commitment to expand Guangxi's economic openness. Key discussions included the potential for advancing cooperation in artificial intelligence and the digital economy, especially in areas like smart agriculture.

Vice Commerce Minister Sheng Qiuping, addressing the audience via video, reiterated efforts by China's Ministry of Commerce to enhance product consumption, expand service sectors, and ensure steady economic growth. He recognized Guangxi as an essential conduit for high-standard cooperation between China and ASEAN.

Diverse presentations by diplomatic envoys from several ASEAN countries, including Vietnam and Cambodia, were also a highlight of the event, showcasing their respective fruits and quality products. Notable influencers and representatives from various sectors engaged actively, building on the relationship between China and its Southeast Asian neighbors.

During the launch, several cooperation agreements were signed, including projects related to ASEAN fruit procurement and broader initiatives aimed at processing RCEP products within China. The collaborative spirit of the event was further exemplified by the unveiling of plans for a joint China-ASEAN AI cooperation ecosystem.