The China International Import Expo (CIIE), running from November 5 to 10, features a prominent forum where Deputy Director-General Hill addressed the significance of trade in fostering economic, cultural, and social ties among nations. Hill remarked on the 30th anniversary of the World Trade Organization (WTO), noting that "this message is more powerful than ever." She highlighted that the WTO's 166 members represent nearly eight billion people and mentioned a sixfold increase in global trade since its inception.
Hill discussed China's substantial economic growth since joining the WTO in 2001, becoming the world's second-largest economy with significant poverty reduction and GDP per capita growth. However, she acknowledged emerging global challenges such as climate change, public health crises, and digital transformation. According to Hill, these issues require new perspectives on international trade.
She stressed that WTO members are actively addressing these challenges through various initiatives involving e-commerce, investment facilitation, services regulation, and environmental concerns. China’s active role was commended by Hill who called for even greater leadership from China in advancing WTO reform.
Reflecting on China's recent Trade Policy Review, Hill appreciated China's commitment to ongoing economic reforms. She emphasized enhanced cooperation among WTO members for future progress: "This is my call to all WTO members, including China," she said.
The CIIE has been held annually in Shanghai since 2018 with partners including the WTO and United Nations organizations. The 2024 edition anticipates around 3,500 exhibitors and approximately 400,000 participants from 129 countries. A WTO pavilion will host activities promoting "WTO @ 30" along with various publications and video screenings.
Additionally, WTO Chief Economist Ralph Ossa will join a high-level panel discussion at the Hongqiao Forum focusing on global new energy vehicles and present the World Trade Report at another event.