Chongqing is currently hosting the 7th Western China International Fair for Investment and Trade, where Uruguay's national pavilion has emerged as a focal point of attraction. Notably highlighted at the pavilion are captivating displays of deep violet amethyst gemstones, drawing numerous visitors eager to learn more about these exquisite products. This fair serves as a significant platform for showcasing international trade and investment opportunities.

Uruguay is recognized as one of the leading producers of amethyst gemstones globally, with a reputation for providing stones characterized by their exceptional color intensity and brilliance. A representative from the pavilion emphasized this point, shedding light on the country's status in the gemstone market. The interest surrounding Uruguayan amethysts at the fair illustrates a growing awareness and appreciation for these products within the Chinese market.

Xiang Qian, a market developer for Chongqing Sino-Latin Import and Export Trade Co., Ltd., remarked on the heightened demand for Uruguayan amethysts in the southwestern regions of China. Previously, these gemstones were predominantly sold in China's eastern coastal cities. However, the trade growth rate in the southwest has stabilized at approximately 10 percent annually, signifying a positive trend in regional consumer interest.

This increase in demand can be attributed to the wider economic implications brought forth by China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI has catalyzed substantial economic development in western China, which in turn has driven a robust appetite for premium imported products, thereby facilitating improved connections between Uruguayan suppliers and Chinese consumers.

Recent trade data supports this growth narrative, revealing that the import and export volume for central and western China's markets reached 1.84 trillion yuan in the first quarter of this year. This figure indicates an 8.7 percent year-on-year growth, outpacing the national average growth rate by 7.4 percentage points. Such statistics underscore the increasing significance of these regions in global trade.

The New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, an essential component of the BRI, has revolutionized trade dynamics by linking western China to international markets. This corridor has drastically shortened transportation times by over 20 days and reduced container shipping costs by approximately 15,000 yuan, overturning previous logistical challenges that plagued Uruguayan goods entering these markets.

Valentin Touris, acting consul general of the Consulate General of Uruguay in Chongqing, emphasized the importance of amethyst as Uruguay's national gemstone. He highlighted that China stands as the largest import market for these gems, with a consistent increase in sales volume year-on-year. Additionally, Touris indicated that the BRI framework holds considerable potential for enhancing trade partnerships between Uruguay and China.

Beyond amethysts, Uruguayan beef, lamb, and dairy products are also witnessing a surge in demand within western China, aided by the connectivity provided by the trade corridor. At the pavilion, premium Uruguayan beef has garnered considerable interest, particularly for its high quality which complements local cuisines such as Chongqing hot pot. Touris noted the rising popularity of offal cuts like tripe in these culinary dishes, further showcasing the versatility of Uruguayan meat products.

As the fair continues, the allure of Uruguay’s offerings becomes increasingly apparent, serving as a testament to the evolving landscape of international trade in response to consumer preferences and infrastructural improvements. With the BRI facilitating smoother trade flows, it is likely that this trend of growth and interest in Uruguayan products will persist in the foreseeable future.