Fair: Finland, Saudi Arabia eye closer China ties

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Finland and Saudi Arabia are enhancing their economic partnerships with China, showcasing investment opportunities and strategic cooperation at the China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT). These efforts highlight China’s position as a crucial trading partner, with both countries aiming to expand collaboration in key sectors like technology, manufacturing, and energy to drive mutual economic growth.

Finland and Saudi Arabia are seeking to strengthen their economic ties with China amid growing trade and investment cooperation, officials and business leaders said during the ongoing China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT).

In a congratulatory letter, Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo emphasized the country’s long-standing and stable diplomatic relationship with China and underscored the significance of bilateral cooperation. He noted that China’s economic development and market potential have created numerous opportunities for foreign companies. China is currently Finland’s largest trading partner in Asia and ranks fourth globally, with bilateral trade exceeding $8 billion in the previous year. To highlight this strengthening partnership, Finland has established its first national pavilion at CIFIT, focusing on Nordic innovations in circular economy, smart manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

Saudi Arabia, the other guest country of honor at the event, marked the upcoming 10th anniversary of its comprehensive strategic partnership with China. Ibrahim Al-Mubarak, Saudi Arabia’s assistant minister of investment, described the relationship as built on a strong foundation. China has been Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner for four consecutive years, with bilateral trade surpassing $100 billion annually. Al-Mubarak expressed optimism about deepening investment cooperation and fostering industrial and technological synergies to boost economic returns for both nations. Reflecting this commitment, Saudi Arabia has sent a substantial economic delegation to present investment prospects in sectors such as energy, chemicals, and advanced manufacturing.

The American Chamber of Commerce in South China also highlighted its sustained engagement at CIFIT, marking its 23rd consecutive year bringing a delegation to the fair. Harley Seyedin, the chamber’s president and chairman, called CIFIT a vital platform for members to explore investment opportunities, establish connections with local governments and enterprises, and identify novel areas of collaboration. The current delegation includes representatives from multinational corporations such as Nike, PepsiCo, Johnson & Johnson, Bunge, and doTERRA, alongside technology and professional services firms. Seyedin observed that while large global companies continue to invest in China, more specialized and innovative enterprises are increasingly seeking partnerships and expanding their presence in the Chinese market.

Zhou Mi, a senior researcher at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, commented that CIFIT’s format fosters trust and face-to-face exchanges, enabling participants to discuss future trends and promote orderly investment. He noted that global investment patterns are increasingly influenced by technological innovation and new business models, with innovative industries becoming key drivers for attracting international capital.

These developments at CIFIT underscore China’s ongoing role as a dynamic hub for international trade and investment, with multiple countries and industries looking to deepen economic engagement amid evolving global markets.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.