China-Europe freight train trips surpass 90,000, energizing high-quality BRI development
x2
China-Europe freight train trips surpass 90,000, energizing high-quality BRI development
27 May 2024
XI'AN, May 25 (Xinhua) -- A train fully loaded with diverse goods departed from Xi'an, the capital city of northwest China's Shaanxi Province on Saturday morning, bound for Malaszewicze, Poland, marking a significant milestone as the total number of China-Europe freight train trips has surpassed 90,000. To date, China-Europe freight trains have transported more than 8.7 million twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) containers of goods, valued at 380 billion U.S. dollars, according to China State Railway Group Co., Ltd (China Railway). From 2016 to 2023, the annual number of China-Europe freight train trips surged from 1,702 to over 17,000. The value of goods transported by this service skyrocketed from 8 billion U.S. dollars in 2016 to 56.7 billion U.S. dollars in 2023. The types of commodities transported via the China-Europe freight trains have expanded from IT products such as laptops and printers at the beginning to over 50,000 different types, including clothing and footwear, automobiles and parts, daily necessities, food, timber, furniture, chemicals and machinery. So far, the China-Europe freight trains have reached 223 cities in 25 European countries and over 100 cities in 11 Asian countries, with the service network covering almost the entire Eurasian continent, it added. "The China-Europe freight trains represent a new model of international transportation with advantages such as convenience, speed, safety, stability and green economy. They have become widely popular as an international public product," said Huang Xin, deputy director of China Railway's cargo department. "They have injected new momentum into serving the high-quality construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and promoting economic and trade exchanges between China and Europe," Huang added. CONTINUOUS VITALITY Inside the intelligent workshops of Shaanxi Konka Smart Home Appliance Co., Ltd, production lines hum with activity as workers help assemble dishwashers and washing machines for its overseas orders. Here, a washing machine can be produced within 20 seconds. "Many of our factories were previously located in the eastern and southern regions of China. We were drawn to establish our operations here in western Xi'an due to its strategic position as a key hub for China-Europe freight trains, along with the supportive government policies and abundant talent pool," said Chen Zhao, the company's general manager. Starting operations in November 2022, the company has now seen 80 percent of their dishwashers and 20 percent of washing machines destined for international markets, according to Chen. In late November 2022, a China-Europe freight train carrying the company's home appliance export products embarked on its journey. As of April this year, Shaanxi Konka has exported 135,000 units of home appliance via 30 dedicated China-Europe freight trains. "Thanks to the China-Europe freight trains, our products now reach various European countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain and Russia, as well as Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan. This mode of transportation not only reduces costs but also significantly shortens delivery time," said Chen, adding that sea shipping typically takes 45 days, while China-Europe freight trains expedite this process, completing deliveries in just 15 to 20 days. "Our overseas clients appreciate the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the China-Europe freight train service, which not only enhances their experience but also reduces their transportation expenses. It's become the preferred and secure choice for them," Chen added. Since 2023, an increasing number of Chinese-made "tech-intensive green trio" products -- lithium-ion batteries, photovoltaic products, and new energy vehicles (NEVs) -- have been transported through the China-Europe freight trains, reflecting a strong market demand. Cao Ping, from the Xi'an branch of China Railway Special Cargo Services CO., LTD, a professional transportation enterprise mainly engaged in railway transportation of vehicles, oversized cargo and refrigerated goods, has had some experience with this. "Since the beginning of this year, this trend has become more pronounced. All the vehicles exported via the China-Europe freight trains from our company are produced by local companies in Shaanxi, and they are all new energy vehicles, which are quite popular abroad," said Cao, adding that the number of monthly exported NEVs handled by her company would exceed 1,300 units, and main destinations are Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The rapid development of the China-Europe freight trains has opened up a new channel for the inland regions of Asia and Europe, enhancing their economic and trade cooperation. Xi'an-based TERRAcont International Logistics Co., Ltd was established two years ago, with only three workers in its earlier days. Over the past two years, the number of workers at this company has increased to more than 20, said Zholbaskanova Nursulu, CEO of the company, who is from Kazakhstan. "Our containers depart via the China-Europe freight trains every month, some from Xi'an and others from Chongqing and Chengdu," Nursulu said. "I've witnessed the rapid development of the China-Europe freight trains and received a lot of support from the Chinese government over the years. It has significantly strengthened China's relations with BRI participating countries, fostering closer trade ties between them," she added. "The spillover effects of the China-Europe freight trains are becoming increasingly prominent, facilitating better integration of related countries and regions into the open world economy, and greatly enhancing the well-being of people from BRI countries," Huang said. Source: Xinhua
Silk Road e-commerce sees business opportunities
x1
Silk Road e-commerce sees business opportunities
27 May 2024
Business opportunities can be explored in developing Silk Road e-commerce, which will help address Chinese consumers' increasingly sophisticated demand and facilitate the development of digital economy in countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, said experts and company executives on Friday. They made such comments during the Silk Road E-commerce Think-Tank Forum jointly held by the Fudan Institute of Belt and Road & Global Governance and the commerce commission of Shanghai's Yangpu district on Friday. Chen Wenling, chief economist of China Center for International Economic Exchange, pointed out that China's trade value between Russia exceeded $240 billion last year, while that between Central Asian economies was less than $100 billion, alluding much room of growth. As she has noticed, efforts have been made in this regard. Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, which is geographically closer to the countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, especially to the Central Asia countries, has seen the settlement of more carmakers and ultra-high voltage power transmission companies. More experiments can be made in the e-commerce sector to further boost growth, she said. Farrukh Khakimov, head of the department at the Development Strategy Center of Uzbekistan, said that the digital economy only accounted for 2.77 percent of the country's economy in 2022, which has increased from 1.99 percent of 2020. The smaller size can also be interpreted as a growth prospect. Therefore, Uzbekistan can team up closer with countries like China to facilitate the substantial growth of its digital economy, he said. Zhao Quan, senior trade policy advisor of the Market Development Division at the United Nations International Trade Center, said that digital trade can largely remove trade barriers and lower costs. However, developing countries often lack the necessary infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, ecosystem, skills, and talents. The Belt and Road Initiative has played a positive role in supporting many countries to build electricity grids, telecommunication and transportation networks, thus increasing trade efficiency, he said. Freshippo, e-commerce giant Alibaba's grocery and fresh goods retail chain, has imported about 200 kinds of products from 29 Silk Road E-commerce economies in 2023, with the annual purchasing value exceeding 3 billion yuan ($410 million). Chen Dan, vice-president of Freshippo Industrial Research Institute, said that these imports can address Chinese consumers' rising demand for quality products. Online platforms like Freshippo can serve as the first stop for the imports intending to tap into the Chinese market, she said. A Silk Road E-commerce International Think-Tank Alliance was launched during the forum. Founding members include more than 30 companies and professional institutions from home and abroad, such as the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, Fudan University, online service platform Meituan, online discounter PDD Holdings and the QazTrade Center for Trade Policy Development Joint-Stock Company of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The Alliance will hold 36 workshops and forums this year to explore new trends in Chinese companies' outbound reaches, data flow and international cooperation. The State Council, China's cabinet, approved in October to set up a pioneering cooperation zone in Shanghai to promote Silk Road E-commerce. Up to date, three institutional innovative policies, including cross-border mutual customs clearance, cross-border electronic invoice interoperability and the pilot program of tracing cross-border commodities, which were first experimented in Shanghai, have been promoted across the Yangtze River Delta region. In the first three months of the year, Shanghai saw its total e-commerce trade value jump 12.7 percent year-on-year to 897.9 billion yuan. Source: China Daily
Interview: RCEP, Cambodia-China FTA boost Cambodia's trade, investment: economist
x2
Interview: RCEP, Cambodia-China FTA boost Cambodia's trade, investment: economist
24 May 2024
PHNOM PENH, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement and the Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA) have boosted Cambodia's trade and investment, a regional expert said on Thursday. Hoe Ee Khor, chief economist of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) +3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), said under the RCEP, the reduction in tariffs and non-tariff barriers has made it easier for Cambodian goods to access larger markets. "RCEP has helped to boost export diversification in Cambodia," he told Xinhua in an email. "Key Cambodian export sectors, such as garments and agricultural products, have benefited from improved market access and competitive pricing due to tariff reductions under the RCEP." Khor said the exports of clothing, shoes, and bags, agricultural products, as well as vehicle spare parts from Cambodia to the RCEP region have been on the rise. Cambodia exported products worth 3.36 billion U.S. dollars to the RCEP countries during the first four months of this year, up 16.2 percent from 2.89 billion dollars over the same period last year, according to the country's Ministry of Commerce. Coming into effect in 2022, the RCEP comprises 15 Asia-Pacific countries including 10 ASEAN member states -- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam -- and their five trading partners, namely China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. Speaking of the CCFTA, Khor said similar to the RCEP, the CCFTA has granted Cambodian goods more and easier access to the Chinese market. "The exports of vehicle spare parts, bicycles, and wood articles to China all saw a significant surge," he said. "Meanwhile, imports from China, such as motorcycles, cars, and buses, enjoyed significant growth, providing the people of Cambodia with more choices of durable consumer goods," he added. Khor also observed more imports of electronic equipment and solar panel materials from China, which are used in the manufacturing of other products and then exported to other markets. "In this regard, the CCFTA is also contributing to manufacturing diversification in Cambodia," he said. He added that the CCFTA has also helped attract foreign direct investment from China to Cambodia. The economist said both the RCEP and the CCFTA will further boost Cambodia's economic growth, which is projected at 5.6 percent in 2024, placing the kingdom among the countries with the fastest growth in the region. Source: Xinhua
J.P. Morgan raises forecast for China's 2024 growth to 5.2 pct
x1
J.P. Morgan raises forecast for China's 2024 growth to 5.2 pct
24 May 2024
SHANGHAI, May 22 (Xinhua) -- Zhu Haibin, chief China economist at J.P. Morgan, estimates China's economy will grow 5.2 percent in 2024, up from his previous estimate of 4.9 percent. The economist announced his updated estimate during the J.P. Morgan Global China Summit in Shanghai on Wednesday. Zhu said that the country's robust 5.3 percent year-on-year economic growth in the first quarter of 2024 surpassed market expectations and marked a strong beginning for the year. He noted that the Chinese economy's three main highlights in the first quarter of the year were a year-on-year increase in its industrial added value, which outpaced the country's overall economic growth, as well as the diversification of the country's export products and destinations, and the rise of new technologies and industries as drivers of economic growth. Zhu said he expects the exchange rate of the renminbi, the Chinese currency, to remain largely stable throughout the year. "Although the yuan faces the pressure of short-term depreciation against the U.S. dollar, the downward pressure will be eased as the U.S. Federal Reserve is likely to cut interest rates in the second half of the year," he said. The J.P. Morgan Global China Summit is one of the largest and most influential annual gatherings of business leaders in China, connecting the global investment community with China's market. This year is the 20th consecutive year that the event has been held. Source: Xinhua
BRI cooperation embraces historical trend of economic globalization: experts
x2
BRI cooperation embraces historical trend of economic globalization: experts
23 May 2024
Bangladeshi experts said Bangladesh is a proud member of the BRI which plays a significant role in the country's economic developments. DHAKA, May 22 (Xinhua) -- The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation embraces the historical trend of economic globalization, responds to the call for improving the global governance system, and meets people's longing for a better life which is the fundamental reason why it always has been strong, said Bangladeshi experts. Tens of speakers from diverse sectors in Bangladesh and China, including academia, business and media, shared their perspectives at a discussion meeting here on Monday, opining that Bangladesh is a proud member of the BRI which plays a significant role in the country's economic developments. The Center for East Asia Foundation (CEAF), a non-profit and non-political independent study circle, has organized the roundtable discussion titled "China-Bangladesh Relations and The Belt and Road Initiative" at the University of Dhaka. Nasim Mahmmud, executive director of the CEAF, in his welcome remarks said China has always extended its firm support to Bangladesh in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and opposing external interference. He said Bangladesh-China relations are based on mutual respect and win-win outcome. Dean of Faculty of Business Studies at the University of Dhaka Muhammad Abdul Moyeen said that Bangladesh has already started benefiting from the BRI, including China's financial investment. He also said that the investment made by the BRI will continue to contribute to the development of Bangladesh's competitiveness in the future and the realization of Vision 2041. Wang Jian, director of the Institute of International Relations from Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, said that the BRI has given a strong boost to Bangladesh's development, with significant improvement in its infrastructure such as roads, bridges and power generation, as well as the growth of China-Bangladesh trade. Next, the BRI cooperation between China and Bangladesh will adhere to the principles of benefiting people's lives and sustainability. In addition to promoting hard connectivity and investment, China and Bangladesh should also align with the people-centered core of the Global Development Initiative to promote soft connectivity and investment, such as personnel training, development experience sharing, education and people-to-people cooperation, and work together to carry out small and beautiful projects, Wang added. In his concluding remarks, former Bangladeshi Ambassador to China and Chairman of the CEAF Mahbub Uz Zaman said, "I am convinced that under the framework of the BRI, more and more Chinese enterprises and people will devote themselves to the goal of Smart Bangladesh, proposing Chinese solutions and making even more contributions to the realization of (Bangladesh's) Vision 2041." Talking to Xinhua on the sidelines of the event, he said both Bangladesh and China are cooperating on the BRI which Bangladesh joined in 2016. "It is expected that this cooperation, especially under the Belt and Road Initiative, will grow further and expand in the future." Source: Xinhua
Media seminar on BRI cooperation held in Kuwait
x2
Media seminar on BRI cooperation held in Kuwait
22 May 2024
KUWAIT CITY, May 21 (Xinhua) -- A media seminar on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation, held in Hawalli Governorate of Kuwait on Monday, has drawn much attention and active responses from local societies. The seminar, co-organized by Xinhua News Agency Middle East Bureau and the Chinese embassy, attracted over 70 representatives from Kuwait News Agency, Kuwait State Television, local newspapers and other mainstream media. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the signing of the agreement on China-Kuwait cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. At the seminar, attendants made speeches and exchanges on topics such as "The role of media in the joint promotion for the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative and Kuwait's 2035 National Vision," and "How the Chinese and Kuwaiti media jointly respond to common challenges in the world today." In his speech, Zhang Jianwei, the Chinese ambassador to Kuwait, introduced the fruitful achievements of the BRI cooperation between China and Kuwait in various fields like economy, trade and people-to-people and cultural exchanges over the past decade. He noted that people-to-people exchanges are an important part of the BRI cooperation, in which media plays an important role. It is hoped that in the future, media of the two countries will continue to intensify two-way travels, deepen cooperation, and jointly tell the stories of the China-Kuwait friendship and cooperation, Zhang added. Khaled Al-Mahdi, secretary-general of the Supreme Council for Planning and Development in Kuwait, said during his speech that the BRI cooperation has brought about obvious development results to the participating countries. As one of the first countries to join the Belt and Road Initiative, Kuwait is constantly strengthening the docking of the 2035 National Vision with the BRI, he said. Wu Zhongmin, deputy chief of the Middle East Bureau of Xinhua News Agency, introduced the exchanges and cooperation between Xinhua and Kuwaiti media, as well as Xinhua's efforts to deepen media integration and development. Among the attendants were also government officials from both countries, media representatives, and cultural and business people. Source: Xinhua
Lu Jianzhong, chairman of SRCIC, attended the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation at invitation
x1
Lu Jianzhong, chairman of SRCIC, attended the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation at invitation
19 Oct 2023
From October 17-18, 2023, the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF III)was convened in Beijing, China. Lu Jianzhong, chairman of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC), was invited to attend the grand event, at which he has reviewed the outstanding achievements and envisioned the bright future of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)with participants from around the world. Chairman Lu Jianzhong meets SRCIC members at the thematic forum on People-to-People Bonds:Mario Rendulic, president of Chinese Southeast European Business Association (left)andDavid Saganelidze, CEO of Georgia's state-run Partnership Fund (right) Amity between people holds the key to the sound relations between states.People-to-people exchangeis an important part of the Belt and Road construction, and also the social foundation for promoting the joint construction of it.Since its establishment in 2015, SRCIC has actively engaged in cultural exchanges and carried out a series of practical and efficient projects to promote people-to-people exchanges. The Silk Road Sunshine student grant set up by SRCIC has funded more than 50 outstanding students from Russia, Lebanon, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Palestine, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Jordan and other countries along the Belt and Road to study in Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Chang'an University, Shaanxi Normal University, and Northwestern University.SRCIC has been taking solid actions to promote educational cooperation with the Belt and Road countries, cultivate "ambassadors" for cultural exchanges, and advance people-to-people exchanges. In the face of new historical opportunities, SRCIC will work with its members and partners from all over the world to expand cooperation areas, innovatecooperation methods, and continued to consolidate the mass base of the BRI, and contribute to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. Notes The BRF III is themed on “High-quality Belt and Road Cooperation: Together for Common Development and Prosperity”. It was attended by representatives from over 150 countries. Three high-level forums were held under the topics of Connectivity in an Open World Economy, Green Silk Road for Harmony with Nature, and Digital Economy as a New Source of Growth, respectively. Six thematic forums with focuses on Trade Connectivity, Maritime Cooperation, Clean Silk Road, Think Tank Exchanges, People-to-People Bonds, and Subnational Cooperation were respectively convened. Among which, the thematic forum on People-to-People Bonds was hosted by the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and attended by about 300 representatives of political parties, non-governmental organizations, and relevant domestic departments, experts and scholars. The foreign participants speak highly of President Xi Jinping’sforesight as to have proposed the BRI and of the fruitful achievements made during the last 10 years that has benefited participating countries. They are willing to make greater contributions to the high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road with high-level cultural exchanges. Source: Partial content excerpted from media reports such as Xinhua News Agency
Chairman Lu Jianzhong Re-elected as Deputy to the National People's Congress
x1
Chairman Lu Jianzhong Re-elected as Deputy to the National People's Congress
17 Feb 2023
On January 16of 2023, 69 deputies from Shaanxi Province were elected to the 14th National People's Congress(NPC) in accordance with the law at the first session of the 14th Shaanxi Provincial People's Congress. Lu Jianzhong, Chairman of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce and Chairman of Tang West Market Group, was re-electedas a deputy to the NPC since his last term beginning in January 2018. Before that, Chairman Luwerea member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC)for three terms. Since his election as a deputy to the NPC, Luhas been earnestly performinghis duties. He has made suggestions on hot issues such as the innovative development of cultural industry, encouraging and supporting the private economy, and high-quality construction of the Belt and Road Initiative. He put forward the Proposal on the Enactment of the Law on Promoting the Digital Economy.A total of 24 proposals were suggestedin areas such as giving full play to the private sector to promote the Belt and Road Initiative and the high-quality development of the private economy, whichprovide detailed reference for relevant ministries and commissions onformulatingpolicies and regulations. Some of the suggestions have been incorporated into relevant planning or policy-relateddocuments.
May the people of Türkiye and Syria recover from the earthquake and rebuild their homes at an early date
x3
May the people of Türkiye and Syria recover from the earthquake and rebuild their homes at an early date
8 Feb 2023
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Türkiye’s southern border at 4:17 a.m. local time (0917 GMT+8) on February 6. The earthquake was the most devastating one in Türkiye since 1999, wreaking havoc on at least 10 provinces. The death toll climbed to 2,316 in Türkiye and 711 in Syria, and the number of injured rose to 13,293 in Türkiye and 1,431 in Syria as of February 6 local time, according to Türkiye's Disaster and Emergency Management Agency and Syrian Ministry of Health. Left: damaged buildings in the Pazarcik district of Kahramanmaras province, Türkiye on February 6. Right: rescue efforts at a collapsed building in Malatya, Türkiye on February 6. (Source: Xinhua News) On February 6, Chinese president Xi Jinping sent messages of condolences to the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Syrian president Bashar al-Assad. The message reads as follows: “I was distressed to learn of the powerful earthquake which has caused heavy casualties and property losses. On behalf of the Chinese government and people, I would like to express our deep condolences to the victims and the injured, and their families. We are confident that your people will recover from the disaster and rebuild homes in no time under the leadership of your administration.” SRCIC, with its 218 organizational members from 82 countries, has several Turkish members. Upon learning the severe earthquake in Türkiye, SRCIC chairman Mr. Lu Jianzhong and the Secretariat sent condolences to Mr. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, President of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye, Mr. Adnan Akfirat, Chairman of the Turkish-Chinese Business Development and Friendship Association, and the Çalık Group. The Chinese government swiftly launched emergency humanitarian assistance mechanism and provided 40 million RMB of emergency assistance to Türkiye at the first batch, including sending out urban rescue teams and medical teams, and providing relief materials. China also coordinated the delivery of relief supplies to Syria and a speedy implementation of ongoing food aid projects. Meanwhile, Chinese people from all walks of life extended a helping hand to Türkiye and Syria. The Red Cross Society of China donated 200,000 US dollars to both countries respectively. Chinese people in the disaster-hit areas are raising donations of tents, blankets and other relief supplies. It is learned that China's Rescue Team of Ramunion, a civilian rescue organization, has arrived at the disaster area this morning to carry out rescue. Political leaders of many countries expressed their sympathy and support to Türkiye after learning the massive casualties caused by the powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake. We hereby call on all SRCIC members and the international community to provide assistance and support within their capacity to the affected people in Türkiye and Syria. Source: Xinhua News
Lu Jianzhong attends Member Representative Symposium of 2022 World Internet Conference
x3
Lu Jianzhong attends Member Representative Symposium of 2022 World Internet Conference
9 Nov 2022
On November 8th, as a prelude to the 2022 World Internet Conference (WIC) Wuzhen Summit, the WIC Member Representative Symposium was held on the venue in ZhejiangProvince. This is the first symposium since the establishment of WIC International Organization, aiming to enhance exchange and cooperation between the organization and its members, and among the membersthemselves. Zhuang Rongwen, chairman of the WIC Organization Committee,attended and addressed the symposium. The eventwasmoderated by WIC Secretary GeneralRen Xianliang. More than 30 member representatives from international organizations, leading global Internet companies, industry authorities and associations listedthe symposium. Lu Jianzhong, chairman of the Board of Directors of Tang West Market Group and chairman of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce,discussed with other representatives about the opportunities and challenges brought by the development of global internet and the prospects of WIC. Zhuangpointed out that as a common platform for the global Internet family, the WIC originates in China but belongs to the world. He hoped that members would contribute their suggestions to the Conference, participate initsconstructionand support its development. Members need to build consensus on ideas, focus on new challenges and problems in cyberspace, and align the efforts of international community to resolve differences.Thedeepeningintegration of digital economy and real economy, and coordination of global industrial and supply chainsare the focuses in developing the digital economy. Members shouldboostscientific and technological innovation, strengthen international collaborationand global cooperation, and exchangevisions and applications of Internet-related technology. Members should deepen cultural exchanges, promote cooperation in internet media, and strengthen the construction of internet culture. Members shouldalsofocus on leading global cooperation, pursuingcommon prosperity for all mankind, deepeningcommon interests and promoting mutual benefit in the Internet sector. LuJianzhongbriefed thethree platformsbuilt by Tang West Market Group, namely the Datang Chain, the Hainan International Cultural and Art Trading Center,and the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce (SRCIC). The platforms are part of the contributing efforts tothedigital cultural industry,the cultural cause,and the construction of Digital China.He suggestedbuildinga multi-chain, cross-chain and internationally-oriented blockchain infrastructure for cultural and art transactions and a cultural digital Silk Road, which can be based on theDatang Chain, a national blockchain anda pilot project of copyright innovativeapplication. The international resources and industrial advantages of SRCICcould also contribute to this cause. The proposal outlines a cultural digital platform for artworks trading and exchange among various countries. The platform integrates functions including ownership validation, authentication, pricing, sequencing and confirming. Together, they resolve the three pain points of the industry - appraisal, valuation and standardization of artworks. This endeavor will boost international cultural and art exchanges and transactions, and enhance mutual learning among civilizations along the Belt and Road. The WIC International Organizationwas established on July 12 this year. It is an international, industrial and non-profit social organization set upvoluntarily by enterprises, organizations, institutions and individuals committed to facilitatingthe global Internetdevelopment. It was registered in China and headquartered in Beijing. Source: World Internet ConferenceWeChat Official Account
SRCIC Vice Chair Maria Fernanda Garza elected as new ICC Chair
x333
SRCIC Vice Chair Maria Fernanda Garza elected as new ICC Chair
16 Jun 2022
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is delighted to welcome Maria Fernanda Garza as its new Chair. After serving as ICC First Vice-Chair for the past two years, the small business owner from Mexico succeeds Ajay Banga as ICC Chair, making her the first woman to hold this position. Maria Fernanda Garza has been elected ICC Chair for a period of two years following a meeting of the ICC World Council, held yesterday in Mexico City. The ICC World Council additionally elected Philippe Varin, Chair of ICC France, as ICC First Vice-Chair, and Nayla Comair Obeid and Harsh Pati Singhania as ICC Vice-Chairs. Ms Garza is CEO of Orestia, as well as SRCIC Vice Chair, a small manufacturing home improvement solutions company based in Mexico, with exports to the USMCA region, Latin-America and Asia. A lifelong advocate for small and medium businesses in her home country and around the world, she participated 19 years in the Mexican Employers' Association (COPARMEX) and served as Vice-President for four years. In her new role, Ms Garza will continue to drive ICC's mission to make business work for everyone, every day, everywhere. Commenting on her election, Maria Fernanda Garza said: "Given the magnitude of the downside risks facing the global economy, it's absolutely vital for us to have a united business voice committed to openness, fair competition and the enablement of peace through international trade.” "In a period that has been characterized by weak international cooperation, I believe that ICC has a vital role to play in harnessing the expertise, innovation and networks of the private sector to secure an effective response to major global challenges. Simply put, our mission to enable peace and prosperity through trade has never been more vital — and, indeed, more urgent." Ms Garza's interest in improving the business environment made her a prominent business leader at a young age. She was the ICC Regional Coordinator for the Americas and a member of the governing body of the ICC International Court of Arbitration. An ICC Executive Board member since 2014, Ms Garza became the first woman to be elected as ICC First Vice-Chair in 2020. A strong advocate of business ethics and corporate governance standards, Ms Garza was Chair of ICC Mexico until June 2020 and is a former member of the International Affairs Advisory Committee of the Ministry of Labour and former member of the National Advisory Committee of ACLAN. She is also a Board Member of the Corporate Responsibility Alliance AliaRSE and was a member of the Corporate Responsibility Network of the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD. ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: "In her new capacity as Chair, Maria Fernanda's experience and insights as CEO of a successful small business will further reinforce the work we do and help ensure that ICC reaches the whole of the international business community. She has already contributed greatly to ICC's work at the global, regional and national levels, and we are very happy that she will remain a strong champion for ICC and challenge us to push ahead to promote more inclusive growth and prosperity." Effective 14 June 2022 for a two-year term, Ms Garza succeeds Ajay Banga in the role. We take this opportunity to thank Mr Banga for his outstanding leadership of our organisation during the past two years, a particularly challenging and uncertain time for businesses worldwide. Mr Banga will continue to serve on the ICC Executive Board as Honorary Chair. The ICC World Council also elected six new members of the ICC Executive Board for three-year terms, strengthening gender, ethnic and geographical diversity in ICC's leadership. Holger Bingmann, Managing Partner, Bingmann Pflüger International GmbH (Germany) Rebecca Enonchong, CEO, AppsTech and Chair of Afrilabs (Cameroon) Marjorie Yang, Chairwoman, Esquel Group (Hong Kong) Lama Al Sulaiman, Shareholder and a Board Member of Rolaco Holdings, KSA, and LUX (Saudi Arabia) Nicolas Uribe, Chair, Bogota Chamber (Colombia) Justin D’Agostino, CEO, Herbert Smith Freehills (Hong Kong) Fredrik Cappelen, Chair at Dometic and Transcom (Sweden), and Candace Johnson, Vice-Chair at NorthStar Earth and Space (Luxembourg/United States) are starting second terms as members of the ICC Executive Board. The ICC World Council additionally ratifiedthe election of Nicolas Uribe, President of the Bogota Chamber of Commerce and Chair of ICC Colombia, as Chair of the ICC World Chambers Federation. His term begins on 1 July 2022. Source: iccwbo.org
Lum Wan Liang, Consul General of Consulate General of Malaysia in Xi'an and his delegation paid a visit to SRCIC Secretariat
x1
Lum Wan Liang, Consul General of Consulate General of Malaysia in Xi'an and his delegation paid a visit to SRCIC Secretariat
28 Apr 2022
SRCIC Secretary General Diane Bian held a talk with Lum Wan Liang, Consul General of Consulate General of Malaysia in Xi'an and his delegation On April 27, 2022, SRCIC Secretary General Diane Bian held a talk with Lum Wan Liang, Consul General of Consulate General of Malaysia in Xi'an, Loh Kai Yong and Raymond Raman, President and Secretary General of the Xi'an Branch of Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China (MAYCHAM CHINA). SG Bian first extended welcome to Consul General Lum Wan Liang and his delegation. She pointed out that SRCIC has been committed to building a cooperation platform between governments and enterprises. Despite the suspension of offline activities due to the COVID pandemic, the long-standing cooperation and friendship between SRCIC and its members and partners continues. It is expected that in the post pandemic period, SRCIC and Malaysian Consulate can resume cooperation and share new opportunities for investment and development by co-sponsoring business promotion seminars and other activities. SG Diane Bian and Consul General Lum Wan Liang Although it was only his first visit to SRCIC, Consul General Lum said he had an understanding of it through MAYCHAM CHINA and affirmed SRCIC's achievements since its establishment. Subsequently, he introduced the Consulate General of Malaysia in Xi'an, and said that today's meeting is only a beginning to the many more opportunities to discuss cooperation in depth in the future. The meeting was also attended by Emma Wei, Director of SRCIC Membership Center Section I, Alina Cao, Director of SRCIC Membership Center Section II, and Valentina Wang, Deputy Director of of SRCIC Membership Center Section II.
China-Europe freight train trips surpass 90,000, energizing high-quality BRI development
x2
China-Europe freight train trips surpass 90,000, energizing high-quality BRI development
27 May 2024
XI'AN, May 25 (Xinhua) -- A train fully loaded with diverse goods departed from Xi'an, the capital city of northwest China's Shaanxi Province on Saturday morning, bound for Malaszewicze, Poland, marking a significant milestone as the total number of China-Europe freight train trips has surpassed 90,000. To date, China-Europe freight trains have transported more than 8.7 million twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) containers of goods, valued at 380 billion U.S. dollars, according to China State Railway Group Co., Ltd (China Railway). From 2016 to 2023, the annual number of China-Europe freight train trips surged from 1,702 to over 17,000. The value of goods transported by this service skyrocketed from 8 billion U.S. dollars in 2016 to 56.7 billion U.S. dollars in 2023. The types of commodities transported via the China-Europe freight trains have expanded from IT products such as laptops and printers at the beginning to over 50,000 different types, including clothing and footwear, automobiles and parts, daily necessities, food, timber, furniture, chemicals and machinery. So far, the China-Europe freight trains have reached 223 cities in 25 European countries and over 100 cities in 11 Asian countries, with the service network covering almost the entire Eurasian continent, it added. "The China-Europe freight trains represent a new model of international transportation with advantages such as convenience, speed, safety, stability and green economy. They have become widely popular as an international public product," said Huang Xin, deputy director of China Railway's cargo department. "They have injected new momentum into serving the high-quality construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and promoting economic and trade exchanges between China and Europe," Huang added. CONTINUOUS VITALITY Inside the intelligent workshops of Shaanxi Konka Smart Home Appliance Co., Ltd, production lines hum with activity as workers help assemble dishwashers and washing machines for its overseas orders. Here, a washing machine can be produced within 20 seconds. "Many of our factories were previously located in the eastern and southern regions of China. We were drawn to establish our operations here in western Xi'an due to its strategic position as a key hub for China-Europe freight trains, along with the supportive government policies and abundant talent pool," said Chen Zhao, the company's general manager. Starting operations in November 2022, the company has now seen 80 percent of their dishwashers and 20 percent of washing machines destined for international markets, according to Chen. In late November 2022, a China-Europe freight train carrying the company's home appliance export products embarked on its journey. As of April this year, Shaanxi Konka has exported 135,000 units of home appliance via 30 dedicated China-Europe freight trains. "Thanks to the China-Europe freight trains, our products now reach various European countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain and Russia, as well as Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan. This mode of transportation not only reduces costs but also significantly shortens delivery time," said Chen, adding that sea shipping typically takes 45 days, while China-Europe freight trains expedite this process, completing deliveries in just 15 to 20 days. "Our overseas clients appreciate the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the China-Europe freight train service, which not only enhances their experience but also reduces their transportation expenses. It's become the preferred and secure choice for them," Chen added. Since 2023, an increasing number of Chinese-made "tech-intensive green trio" products -- lithium-ion batteries, photovoltaic products, and new energy vehicles (NEVs) -- have been transported through the China-Europe freight trains, reflecting a strong market demand. Cao Ping, from the Xi'an branch of China Railway Special Cargo Services CO., LTD, a professional transportation enterprise mainly engaged in railway transportation of vehicles, oversized cargo and refrigerated goods, has had some experience with this. "Since the beginning of this year, this trend has become more pronounced. All the vehicles exported via the China-Europe freight trains from our company are produced by local companies in Shaanxi, and they are all new energy vehicles, which are quite popular abroad," said Cao, adding that the number of monthly exported NEVs handled by her company would exceed 1,300 units, and main destinations are Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The rapid development of the China-Europe freight trains has opened up a new channel for the inland regions of Asia and Europe, enhancing their economic and trade cooperation. Xi'an-based TERRAcont International Logistics Co., Ltd was established two years ago, with only three workers in its earlier days. Over the past two years, the number of workers at this company has increased to more than 20, said Zholbaskanova Nursulu, CEO of the company, who is from Kazakhstan. "Our containers depart via the China-Europe freight trains every month, some from Xi'an and others from Chongqing and Chengdu," Nursulu said. "I've witnessed the rapid development of the China-Europe freight trains and received a lot of support from the Chinese government over the years. It has significantly strengthened China's relations with BRI participating countries, fostering closer trade ties between them," she added. "The spillover effects of the China-Europe freight trains are becoming increasingly prominent, facilitating better integration of related countries and regions into the open world economy, and greatly enhancing the well-being of people from BRI countries," Huang said. Source: Xinhua
Silk Road e-commerce sees business opportunities
x1
Silk Road e-commerce sees business opportunities
27 May 2024
Business opportunities can be explored in developing Silk Road e-commerce, which will help address Chinese consumers' increasingly sophisticated demand and facilitate the development of digital economy in countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, said experts and company executives on Friday. They made such comments during the Silk Road E-commerce Think-Tank Forum jointly held by the Fudan Institute of Belt and Road & Global Governance and the commerce commission of Shanghai's Yangpu district on Friday. Chen Wenling, chief economist of China Center for International Economic Exchange, pointed out that China's trade value between Russia exceeded $240 billion last year, while that between Central Asian economies was less than $100 billion, alluding much room of growth. As she has noticed, efforts have been made in this regard. Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, which is geographically closer to the countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, especially to the Central Asia countries, has seen the settlement of more carmakers and ultra-high voltage power transmission companies. More experiments can be made in the e-commerce sector to further boost growth, she said. Farrukh Khakimov, head of the department at the Development Strategy Center of Uzbekistan, said that the digital economy only accounted for 2.77 percent of the country's economy in 2022, which has increased from 1.99 percent of 2020. The smaller size can also be interpreted as a growth prospect. Therefore, Uzbekistan can team up closer with countries like China to facilitate the substantial growth of its digital economy, he said. Zhao Quan, senior trade policy advisor of the Market Development Division at the United Nations International Trade Center, said that digital trade can largely remove trade barriers and lower costs. However, developing countries often lack the necessary infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, ecosystem, skills, and talents. The Belt and Road Initiative has played a positive role in supporting many countries to build electricity grids, telecommunication and transportation networks, thus increasing trade efficiency, he said. Freshippo, e-commerce giant Alibaba's grocery and fresh goods retail chain, has imported about 200 kinds of products from 29 Silk Road E-commerce economies in 2023, with the annual purchasing value exceeding 3 billion yuan ($410 million). Chen Dan, vice-president of Freshippo Industrial Research Institute, said that these imports can address Chinese consumers' rising demand for quality products. Online platforms like Freshippo can serve as the first stop for the imports intending to tap into the Chinese market, she said. A Silk Road E-commerce International Think-Tank Alliance was launched during the forum. Founding members include more than 30 companies and professional institutions from home and abroad, such as the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, Fudan University, online service platform Meituan, online discounter PDD Holdings and the QazTrade Center for Trade Policy Development Joint-Stock Company of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The Alliance will hold 36 workshops and forums this year to explore new trends in Chinese companies' outbound reaches, data flow and international cooperation. The State Council, China's cabinet, approved in October to set up a pioneering cooperation zone in Shanghai to promote Silk Road E-commerce. Up to date, three institutional innovative policies, including cross-border mutual customs clearance, cross-border electronic invoice interoperability and the pilot program of tracing cross-border commodities, which were first experimented in Shanghai, have been promoted across the Yangtze River Delta region. In the first three months of the year, Shanghai saw its total e-commerce trade value jump 12.7 percent year-on-year to 897.9 billion yuan. Source: China Daily
Interview: RCEP, Cambodia-China FTA boost Cambodia's trade, investment: economist
x2
Interview: RCEP, Cambodia-China FTA boost Cambodia's trade, investment: economist
24 May 2024
PHNOM PENH, May 23 (Xinhua) -- The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement and the Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA) have boosted Cambodia's trade and investment, a regional expert said on Thursday. Hoe Ee Khor, chief economist of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) +3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), said under the RCEP, the reduction in tariffs and non-tariff barriers has made it easier for Cambodian goods to access larger markets. "RCEP has helped to boost export diversification in Cambodia," he told Xinhua in an email. "Key Cambodian export sectors, such as garments and agricultural products, have benefited from improved market access and competitive pricing due to tariff reductions under the RCEP." Khor said the exports of clothing, shoes, and bags, agricultural products, as well as vehicle spare parts from Cambodia to the RCEP region have been on the rise. Cambodia exported products worth 3.36 billion U.S. dollars to the RCEP countries during the first four months of this year, up 16.2 percent from 2.89 billion dollars over the same period last year, according to the country's Ministry of Commerce. Coming into effect in 2022, the RCEP comprises 15 Asia-Pacific countries including 10 ASEAN member states -- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam -- and their five trading partners, namely China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. Speaking of the CCFTA, Khor said similar to the RCEP, the CCFTA has granted Cambodian goods more and easier access to the Chinese market. "The exports of vehicle spare parts, bicycles, and wood articles to China all saw a significant surge," he said. "Meanwhile, imports from China, such as motorcycles, cars, and buses, enjoyed significant growth, providing the people of Cambodia with more choices of durable consumer goods," he added. Khor also observed more imports of electronic equipment and solar panel materials from China, which are used in the manufacturing of other products and then exported to other markets. "In this regard, the CCFTA is also contributing to manufacturing diversification in Cambodia," he said. He added that the CCFTA has also helped attract foreign direct investment from China to Cambodia. The economist said both the RCEP and the CCFTA will further boost Cambodia's economic growth, which is projected at 5.6 percent in 2024, placing the kingdom among the countries with the fastest growth in the region. Source: Xinhua
J.P. Morgan raises forecast for China's 2024 growth to 5.2 pct
x1
J.P. Morgan raises forecast for China's 2024 growth to 5.2 pct
24 May 2024
SHANGHAI, May 22 (Xinhua) -- Zhu Haibin, chief China economist at J.P. Morgan, estimates China's economy will grow 5.2 percent in 2024, up from his previous estimate of 4.9 percent. The economist announced his updated estimate during the J.P. Morgan Global China Summit in Shanghai on Wednesday. Zhu said that the country's robust 5.3 percent year-on-year economic growth in the first quarter of 2024 surpassed market expectations and marked a strong beginning for the year. He noted that the Chinese economy's three main highlights in the first quarter of the year were a year-on-year increase in its industrial added value, which outpaced the country's overall economic growth, as well as the diversification of the country's export products and destinations, and the rise of new technologies and industries as drivers of economic growth. Zhu said he expects the exchange rate of the renminbi, the Chinese currency, to remain largely stable throughout the year. "Although the yuan faces the pressure of short-term depreciation against the U.S. dollar, the downward pressure will be eased as the U.S. Federal Reserve is likely to cut interest rates in the second half of the year," he said. The J.P. Morgan Global China Summit is one of the largest and most influential annual gatherings of business leaders in China, connecting the global investment community with China's market. This year is the 20th consecutive year that the event has been held. Source: Xinhua
BRI cooperation embraces historical trend of economic globalization: experts
x2
BRI cooperation embraces historical trend of economic globalization: experts
23 May 2024
Bangladeshi experts said Bangladesh is a proud member of the BRI which plays a significant role in the country's economic developments. DHAKA, May 22 (Xinhua) -- The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation embraces the historical trend of economic globalization, responds to the call for improving the global governance system, and meets people's longing for a better life which is the fundamental reason why it always has been strong, said Bangladeshi experts. Tens of speakers from diverse sectors in Bangladesh and China, including academia, business and media, shared their perspectives at a discussion meeting here on Monday, opining that Bangladesh is a proud member of the BRI which plays a significant role in the country's economic developments. The Center for East Asia Foundation (CEAF), a non-profit and non-political independent study circle, has organized the roundtable discussion titled "China-Bangladesh Relations and The Belt and Road Initiative" at the University of Dhaka. Nasim Mahmmud, executive director of the CEAF, in his welcome remarks said China has always extended its firm support to Bangladesh in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and opposing external interference. He said Bangladesh-China relations are based on mutual respect and win-win outcome. Dean of Faculty of Business Studies at the University of Dhaka Muhammad Abdul Moyeen said that Bangladesh has already started benefiting from the BRI, including China's financial investment. He also said that the investment made by the BRI will continue to contribute to the development of Bangladesh's competitiveness in the future and the realization of Vision 2041. Wang Jian, director of the Institute of International Relations from Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, said that the BRI has given a strong boost to Bangladesh's development, with significant improvement in its infrastructure such as roads, bridges and power generation, as well as the growth of China-Bangladesh trade. Next, the BRI cooperation between China and Bangladesh will adhere to the principles of benefiting people's lives and sustainability. In addition to promoting hard connectivity and investment, China and Bangladesh should also align with the people-centered core of the Global Development Initiative to promote soft connectivity and investment, such as personnel training, development experience sharing, education and people-to-people cooperation, and work together to carry out small and beautiful projects, Wang added. In his concluding remarks, former Bangladeshi Ambassador to China and Chairman of the CEAF Mahbub Uz Zaman said, "I am convinced that under the framework of the BRI, more and more Chinese enterprises and people will devote themselves to the goal of Smart Bangladesh, proposing Chinese solutions and making even more contributions to the realization of (Bangladesh's) Vision 2041." Talking to Xinhua on the sidelines of the event, he said both Bangladesh and China are cooperating on the BRI which Bangladesh joined in 2016. "It is expected that this cooperation, especially under the Belt and Road Initiative, will grow further and expand in the future." Source: Xinhua
Media seminar on BRI cooperation held in Kuwait
x2
Media seminar on BRI cooperation held in Kuwait
22 May 2024
KUWAIT CITY, May 21 (Xinhua) -- A media seminar on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation, held in Hawalli Governorate of Kuwait on Monday, has drawn much attention and active responses from local societies. The seminar, co-organized by Xinhua News Agency Middle East Bureau and the Chinese embassy, attracted over 70 representatives from Kuwait News Agency, Kuwait State Television, local newspapers and other mainstream media. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the signing of the agreement on China-Kuwait cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. At the seminar, attendants made speeches and exchanges on topics such as "The role of media in the joint promotion for the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative and Kuwait's 2035 National Vision," and "How the Chinese and Kuwaiti media jointly respond to common challenges in the world today." In his speech, Zhang Jianwei, the Chinese ambassador to Kuwait, introduced the fruitful achievements of the BRI cooperation between China and Kuwait in various fields like economy, trade and people-to-people and cultural exchanges over the past decade. He noted that people-to-people exchanges are an important part of the BRI cooperation, in which media plays an important role. It is hoped that in the future, media of the two countries will continue to intensify two-way travels, deepen cooperation, and jointly tell the stories of the China-Kuwait friendship and cooperation, Zhang added. Khaled Al-Mahdi, secretary-general of the Supreme Council for Planning and Development in Kuwait, said during his speech that the BRI cooperation has brought about obvious development results to the participating countries. As one of the first countries to join the Belt and Road Initiative, Kuwait is constantly strengthening the docking of the 2035 National Vision with the BRI, he said. Wu Zhongmin, deputy chief of the Middle East Bureau of Xinhua News Agency, introduced the exchanges and cooperation between Xinhua and Kuwaiti media, as well as Xinhua's efforts to deepen media integration and development. Among the attendants were also government officials from both countries, media representatives, and cultural and business people. Source: Xinhua
Report on BRIX Webinar: “Europeans for the BRI”
x4
Report on BRIX Webinar: “Europeans for the BRI”
30 Apr 2024
A very successful webinar of the Belt and Road Institute in Sweden was held today, April 29 th , 2024. The webinar was entitled “Europeans for the Belt and Road Initiative”. It brought together speakers, including leaders, entrepreneurs, and scholars, from Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, and Sweden. The Chairman of the Belt and Road Institute in Sweden, Stephen Brawer, who moderated the event, emphasized from the beginning, that this was the first of many webinars that will continue promoting European cooperation with China and the BRI. The opening speech was delivered by His Excellency Cui Aimin, China’s Ambassador to Sweden. He pointed out that China and Europe have no geopolitical reason for conflict or unhealthy competition. He made very clear that the purpose of de-risking and other obstacles to free and cooperative trade benefits neither Europe nor China. Rather, the commitment to genuine cooperation through Belt and Road understanding will only promote the interests of all parties. All the speakers, representing their respective nations, showed in concise, but detailed presentations why and how their countries continue to grow and benefit from cooperation with China and the BRI. In addition to Ambassador Cui, the speakers included Mr. Erik Solheim, VP, of the Green Belt and Road Coalition, Mr. George Floras, President of the Belt and Road Associates in Greece, Mr. Jan Menke Hopma, CEO of Innovasian Bridge, from the Netherlands, Mr. Tomaz Amon, CEO from Bioanim, from Slovenia, and Mr. Hussein Askary, Vice Chairman of the Belt and Road Institute in Sweden. Many of the participants and listeners, upward of 50 persons, took part in a very active and lively question-and-answer discussion with Ambassador Cui and the other speakers. In conclusion, all the participants agreed that this was a very successful beginning to uniting European scholars, leaders, and entrepreneurs. In coming webinars, BRIX will work to bring European participants and supporters together with scholars, business leaders, and experts from China. It is in this spirit we can build a powerful international movement for peace and cooperation that is “a community for a shared future for mankind.” Source:www.brixsweden.org
Q1 data reflects confidence and strength of Chinese economy
x1
Q1 data reflects confidence and strength of Chinese economy
19 Apr 2024
China's economic growth for the first quarter of 2024 has exceeded market expectations. By pursuing high-quality development, and nurturing new quality productive forces, the country has delivered an impressive performance. Let's take a look at views of experts from home and abroad to China's economic performance and onwards. Daryl Guppy China's GDP has grown at a faster rate of 5.3 percent than the 4.6 percent expected by many Western observers. This growth comes as no surprise following the resurgence of discretionary spending over the recent festival holidays. This was an early indication of economic strength. This discretionary spending is a useful measure of the health and expectations of the Chinese economy. Increased consumer spending during the Qingming Festival was a litmus test for sustained confidence in Chinese economic growth. The festival continued the momentum of discretionary spending seen in the Chinese New Year Festival. This suggests that the Spring Festival consumer spending increase was early evidence of a return in confidence in economic growth, so the high growth rate in Q1 is not a surprise. The increase in Q1 GDP is evidence of sustainable growth in the economy and economic activity. It reflects increased productivity created in the digital and green economies. This is where the future of economic growth is found. Wang Dan The Q1 growth beat market expectations by a wide margin, and manufacturing and infrastructure were the main engines. Housing market consolidation is also deepening. In the second half of the year, economic data may improve further, primarily driven by the government. After all, we are still in an economic cycle that tends to rise from the bottom, making government projects very important. Many local government projects actually gain momentum from mid-year onwards. As these projects unfold, economic data for the second half of the year is expected to be better. Exports are expected to continue rising this year. So far this year, we have observed that companies engaged in exports, especially those targeting Europe and America, have performed quite well. Wei Jianguo From the economic data of the first quarter, three major highlights can be seen in the Chinese economy. Firstly, the effect of high-quality economic development has been achieved. Traditional industries are upgrading, emerging industries are growing steadily and future industrial cultivation is also strengthening. Secondly, the innovative effects of the institutional mechanisms have been highlighted, promoting reforms in rules, regulations, management and standards. Thirdly, China's high-level opening-up measures have had a positive impact on our country's business environment, particularly in attracting foreign investment. Zhang Yansheng In the first quarter of this year, our country's volume of goods trade import and export broke through 10 trillion yuan ($1.38 trillion) for the first time in the same period of history, with a year-on-year increase of 5 percent. Among them, exports were 5.74 trillion yuan, an increase of 4.9 percent; imports were 4.43 trillion yuan, an increase of 5 percent. The growth rate of imports and exports reached a new high in six quarters. Zhang Yansheng believes that the marginal improvement in external demand in the first quarter, coupled with the overall better-than-expected performance of global shipping, logistics and trade chains, reflects that China's foreign trade has started well, with strong resilience and vitality in imports and exports. Source: China Daily
CAEXPO supports ASEAN centrality: Daryl Guppy
x1
CAEXPO supports ASEAN centrality: Daryl Guppy
21 Sep 2023
Editor's note:Daryl Guppy, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is an international financial technical analysis expert. He has provided weekly Shanghai Index analyses for mainland Chinese media for more than a decade. Guppy appears regularly on CNBC Asia and is known as "The Chart Man." He is a former national board member of the Australia China Business Council. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily those of CGTN. The 20th China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit in Nanning are two of the most significant events in the ASEAN region. It is more than just a trade expo with the usual fascinating array of goods and products on display. These are important, but it's the dialogues and meetings that deliver the full significance of CAEXPO because they provide a strategic guide to regional policy development. In 2014, I was invited to speak in the first Australian partner participation in CAEXPO. I got to know the outline of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and how this meshed with what is now the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It was the first time the concept had been explained fully to an international audience and the impact was significant. It set the parameters for business engagement and development in the following decade and more. This year's CAEXPO has continued that tradition of policy commitments with the opening ceremony speech by Chinese Premier Li Qiang. He emphasized the significance of building a closer China-ASEAN community. These remarks followed the recent ASEAN meeting in Jakarta where the issue of ASEAN centrality in regional decision making was a major point of discussion. Li acknowledged ASEAN centrality in the process of forging smooth China-ASEAN relationships. This is another important indication of China's desire to work within existing regional trade structures of which CAEXPO is a practical example. This is a direct counter to the approach taken by the United States which seeks to undermine ASEAN centrality in regional decision making by turning organizations like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) into a geopolitical platform. Echoing decade-old remarks, Li placed ASEAN countries at the intersection of the "Belt and Road" on both land and sea. They reflected the historical connections of China trade from the ancient land-based Tea Horse Road and the maritime trade centers in the Straits of Malacca. His remarks provided a clear indication of the vitality and growth of the BRI. This came as a shock to Western observers who have been led to believe that the BRI is a spent force. Nothing could be further from the truth as the multi-faceted BRI continues to expand its engagement with ASEAN in many key areas. The BRI is not just about physical infrastructure. It includes capital infrastructure investment to connect Chinese and ASEAN financial markets. It includes trade and soft infrastructure co-ordination to make cross border trade and settlement more efficient. The establishment of common digital standards across ASEAN is an essential foundation for progress in these areas. Consistent with the objectives of the BRI and ASEAN, the expo has a strong emphasis on the digital economy and green economy. The theme of the expo particularly supports businesses operating in emerging sectors of new information technology and new energy. CAEXPO shows that China is committed to expanding cooperation in culture, tourism, training, and youth exchange because these foster mutual understanding and friendship between the people of the region. The success of the expo in terms of the number and variety of participants, shows that China is a growing economy determined to continue its engagement with the region. On one level, CAEXPO provides an important platform for exhibitors to highlight products and services available within the region and which form the foundation of trade relationships.Many are the traditional products of trade, but they also include the breakthroughs seen with the Huawei Mate60 built on China developed chip technology. One feature overlooked in the colourful displays of ethnic dress and custom is that CAEXPO is held in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. This is just one of five Autonomous regions in China, a factor rarely recognized in Western media coverage which paints China as a monolithic state. These regions illustrate the cooperative pathway that is an essential part of prosperity in the ASEAN region. On another level, CAEXPO provides the political and strategic framework that underpins the broad improvement of trade relationships, peace and prosperity within the region. Premier Li's remarks confirmed China's commitment to regional prosperity and cooperation within the ASEAN framework. Source: CGTN
Francis Chua Was Invited to Attend The East Expo in Nanning, Received By Premier Li Qiang of The State Council
x1
Francis Chua Was Invited to Attend The East Expo in Nanning, Received By Premier Li Qiang of The State Council
20 Sep 2023
The picture shows Chinese Premier Li Qiang (center) taking a group photo with Amb. Francis Chua (fifth from left, front row) and well-known ASEAN entrepreneurs. Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry News:Ambassador Francis Chua, Permanent Honorary Chairman of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Founding Chairman of the Philippine International Chamber of Commerce and Founding Chairman of the Philippine Silk Road International Chamber of Commerce as well as the SRCIC Vice Chairman, at the invitation of the host, Ministry of Commerce of China, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, the Government of Guangxi Autonomous Region and Guangxi Council for the Promotion of International Trade, on September 15, went to Nanning, Guangxi Province to attend the 20th China-Asean Expo and China-Asean Business and Investment Summit, and as the only representative guest of the Philippines, met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and took photos with well-known ASEAN entrepreneurs, and attended the State banquet. The theme of this East Expo is "Building a home with harmony and Coexistence, Sharing the Future with Destiny - Promoting high-quality Development of the Belt and Road and Building an Economic Growth Center", during which the side meeting on the theme of "Institutional Opening: At "New Pattern of Regional Economic Development" will be held the first time. Representatives from ASEAN countries will have in-depth discussions and exchanges on the steady expansion of institutional openness of rules, regulations, management and standards in the region. At the same time, activities such as the "Year of Investing in China - Entering Guangxi" special event and the "Face to Face with the Business Counsellors of Chinese Missions in 10 ASEAN countries" exchange meeting will also be held to showcase China's investment opportunities, build a platform for multinational companies to understand China and invest in China, and convey to the world China's confidence and determination to unswervingly promote a high level of opening-up. This East Expo will focus on China-Asean Free Trade Area 3.0, RCEP, the "Belt and Road" and other multilateral and bilateral cooperation mechanisms, continue to hold the third RCEP Summit Forum and other institutional activities, issued the "China-Asean Free Trade Area 3.0 Business Opportunities Outlook" blue book, guide regional enterprises to better grasp the new economic and trade rules, better share the RCEP high-quality implementation of the new dividends. Writer/Picture:Pol Ongkinglok Linguister/Editor:Stephanie Tan
Qinghai's Achievements in Practicing Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era
x1
Qinghai's Achievements in Practicing Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era
14 Sep 2023
Qinghai's Achievements in Practicing Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era,cohosted by the International Department of the CPC Central Committee and the CPC Qinghai Provincial Committee, was held in Xining,Qinghai Provinceon September12. The theme of the event was Chinese Modernization: Harmony Between Humanity and Nature.Over 150 political party leaders or representatives from nearly 30 countries attended the event in person and online. Mr. Mohammad Omer,the SRCIC member andDirector of the China-Africa Center for Technology Transfer and Commercialization,was invited to the event. Mr. Omer expressed his appreciation and thanks to the International Department of the CPC Central Committee and the CPC Qinghai Provincial Committee for co-hosting this important event. He underlined how the world can learn from Qinghai's experience of Chinese Modernization in the New Era. Andpointed out that this eventrelates well to the Global Development Initiative proposed by H.E. President Xi and where China-Africa Center for Technology Transfer and Commercialization signed its Declaration. In conclusion, Mr. Omer said that Qinghai's success on achieving harmony between mankind and nature contributes to the realization of the Green Silk Road and Building Jointly an Ecological Community of Shared Future for Mankind.
Adnan Akfirat - A miracle in the heart of Asia: Horgos!
x1
Adnan Akfirat - A miracle in the heart of Asia: Horgos!
5 May 2023
By Adnan Akfirat,Chairman of the Turkish-Chinese Business Development and Friendship Association Can there be a port at the farthest distance from the sea? I went to the Horgos Free Economic Zone, known as the world's largest dry port, which is crossed by both road and rail and will soon have air service. I have seen it, I am writing about it! AT THE INACCESSIBILITY POLE OF EURASIA The Horgos Free Trade Economic (FEZ), a joint creation of both countries on the China-Kazakhstan border, lies at the foot of what is known as the Eurasian Pole of Inaccessibility. The Pole of Inaccessibility is a geographical term. It refers to the geographical region on a continent farthest from the seas. This is the ingenuity of the Asian Century: Eurasia's Pole of Inaccessibility is now the crossroads of transcontinental transportation and manufacturing. Horgos FEZ, in the north of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on the China-Kazakhstan border, is at the very heart of Asia. And it serves as the heart of trade not only to Asia but also to three continents, including Europe and Africa. Asia and Europe's products pass Horgos by road and rail to reach their destinations. Products arriving by sea are also transported by land and rail to the ends of Asia via Horgos. Cargo containers that arrive at Horgos FEZ in 5 days by rail from the port city of Lianyungang in eastern China can reach the city of Duisburg in northwestern Germany in 10 days. This connection route, which is 3 times faster than sea transportation and half the cost of air transportation, offers an alternative to investors in terms of time and cost. Goods purchased from Horgos FEZ can be freely shipped to CIS countries without any additional customs inspection or tax. HERODOTUS' LEGEND COMES TRUE! Horgos is a historical gateway. It has long been called the Dzungarian Gate (or Altai Pass). It is the only pass through the 4,800-kilometer mountain wall stretching from Manchuria to Afghanistan. It is a convenient natural gateway for riders on horseback between the western Eurasian steppes and the lands further east. It has also been noted for its fierce and almost constant winds. In his "Histories", Herodotus quotes travelers' reports of a country in the northeast where men with the bodies of lions and the wings of eagles guarded the gold and the North Wind came out of a mountain cave. Hyperborea, a term meaning beyond the point where Boreas, the god of the North Wind, breathed his breath, is the name of a mythical land in Greek Mythology beyond the North Wind, where the sun never fails to shine, the trees are always full of fruit and the meadows are always green. Some scholars argue that there is a connection between the Dzungarian Gate and the home of Boreas, the creator of the North Wind in Greek mythology. Because this gate is at the foot of the Altai Mountains, named after the Golden Mountain. Horgos have replaced the house of Boreas! BREAKING NEW GROUND IN INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION The Horgos FEZ is intended to be a game-changing catalyst for international cooperation and trade. Officially called the International Center for Border Cooperation (ICBC), the five-square-kilometer Free Economic Zone is located in the middle of the Saryesik-Atyrau desert, 670 kilometers west of Urumqi and 380 kilometers east of Almaty. Horgos, in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture of China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, means "the place where camel caravans pass" in Mongolian and "the place where wealth accumulates" in Kazakh. The new city of Horgos on the Chinese side, the size of New York City, is like an oasis in the desert. On the Kazakh side, the developing Horgos-East Gate Special Economic Zone is recovering rapidly after the pandemic. Many of the China-Europe rail lines pass through here. Horgos is also the crossroads of the Western Europe-Western China Highway from the Yellow Sea to the Baltic. It is a successful implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative, a massive economic cooperation-trade network of interconnected land and sea ports, special economic zones, new cities, and free trade zones in which 134 countries in Eurasia, Africa, and South America are actively participating. Horgos is positioned as a gateway for international trade linking east and west and a bridgehead for the opening of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to the west. It is the world's first cross-border international free economic zone and China's first special economic zone "inside the country but outside the jurisdiction of customs". Moreover, with the facilities provided by the Chinese central government and the strong interest of the Uyghur Autonomous Region, the Horgos Local Government offers very attractive investment incentives for setting up manufacturing facilities. The incentives offered by both China and Kazakhstan for Horgos FEZ to become a production base deserve the attention of investors. THE BRIGHT ROAD OF KAZAKHSTAN When it first opened in December 2011, the Khorgos FEZ was heralded as a cornerstone of China-Kazakhstan bilateral relations and a prime example of Kazakhstan's broader "Nurlu Yol" plan to diversify its economy beyond energy exports. Presented in promotional materials as "a huge new city of the future where two civilizations intersect," Horgos FEZ is envisioned as a multicultural economic crossroads where Central Asian Turks, Russians, and Chinese can come together to buy each other's goods, eat each other's cuisine and consume each other's entertainment and culture. A new city is being built on the Kazakhstan side of the Horgos FEZ. Nurkent is expected to be home to 100,000 people. The first zone is 90% complete. It was announced that the entire development and construction of Nurkent City Phase One will be completed in September 2023. It is planned to be fully completed by 2035. Nurkent is seen as a vehicle to help resettle workers at the Khorgos-East Gate, the largest transportation and logistics hub in the Belt and Road Initiative. These workers will be retrained as a permanent source of labor for the Horgos FEZ, which is already a major trade hub between Kazakhstan and China and is developing into a favored manufacturing zone. HUGE WORK IN LESS TIME The Chinese side of Horgos consists of five giant four-story wholesale markets. They are located side by side in blocks, with wide sidewalks and roads between them. No personal vehicles are allowed within the area, and public golf carts and vans transport customers from the shopping complex to the shopping complex. New wholesale markets continue to be added, while unfinished construction projects take up much of the land. Like Chinese wholesale markets, the inside of the malls is made up of hundreds of small shops and booths rented by individual vendors. Most of the buildings, floors, and corridors are organized by product type. Vendors call out to you as you walk through aisles filled with huge waist-high piles of goods. But it is important to remember that this is not just a new free trade zone, but an entirely new economy being created. ICBC is just one part of a multi-pronged development initiative to build an entirely new trade, manufacturing, and logistics zone where none existed before. The adjacent Horgos special economic zone is estimated to attract 30,000 workers and their families, while the city of Horgos is being built for 200,000 people. Such large-scale development anywhere takes decades, not just years. China did it in 10 years. TUCEM OPENS TURKISH BRANDS TO CHINA FROM HORGOS At the invitation of Mr. Ma Fuming, President of Horgos International Chamber of Commerce, we as the Turkish-Chinese Business Matching Center delegation Mr, Serdar Kulu, Director of TUCEM Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, and I spent four full days in Horgos between April 26-30. Mr. Rutkay Çakırkaya, the owner of Balizza, one of Turkey's leading women's clothing brands, joined us coming from through Kazakhstan. We were received by Mr. Hao Jianmin, the CCP Secretary of Horgos. The Uyghur, Kazakh, Hui, and Han officials of the Horgos Local Government mobilized with sincere interest to provide the best service. Here is our good news: On August 12-14, we are organizing a special exhibition and fashion show with Turkish clothing brands in Horgos International Free Economic Zone. Hao Jianmin, Secretary of Horgos CPC, has committed to bringing a delegation of 1000 buyers, including all major garment buyers from the eastern region of China. Turkey is organizing the first international event of Horgos FEZ in a magnificent venue built in the shape of a Chinese Palace. We will continue to report good news from Horgos!
Chairman's Message

Greetings from the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce! On behalf of SRCIC, I would like to welcome you to our website!

Member DirectoryMore
cacciunion_of_arab_chambers俄罗斯联邦国旗阿富汗伊斯兰共和国国旗阿塞拜疆共和国国旗埃及爱沙尼亚共和国国旗澳大利亚巴布亚新几内亚独立国国旗巴基斯坦伊斯兰共和国国旗巴勒斯坦国国旗白俄罗斯共和国国旗波黑国旗波兰玻利维亚共和国国旗俄罗斯联邦国旗菲律宾哥伦比亚国旗格鲁吉亚共和国国旗韩国吉布提共和国国旗吉尔吉斯共和国国旗科索沃共和国国旗黎巴嫩共和国国旗立陶宛共和国国旗马其顿共和国国旗蒙古国国旗孟加拉人民共和国国旗摩尔多瓦共和国国旗墨西哥尼泊尔联邦民主共和国国旗塞尔维亚国旗塞浦路斯共和国国旗斯里兰卡民主社会主义共和国国旗斯洛伐克共和国国旗塔吉克斯坦共和国国旗图瓦卢国旗土耳其共和国国旗乌克兰国旗希腊共和国国旗亚美尼亚共和国国旗伊朗伊斯兰共和国国旗以色列国旗意大利