The China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) opened Wednesday in Beijing, drawing exhibitors from 90 countries, regions, and international organizations to Shougang Park for the five-day event. This year’s edition features more than 1,800 companies, with Norway serving as the guest country of honor.
Norway’s national pavilion highlights a diverse range of industries, including marine industries, nutrition, agriculture, energy, health, digital services, and tourism. Norwegian officials emphasized the strategic importance of CIFTIS in expanding business channels and solidifying partnerships with Chinese companies.
“CIFTIS opens up opportunities for Norwegian companies to expand their business channels and forge partnerships,” said Vebjorn Dysvik, Norway’s ambassador to China, noting the robust trade ties supported by ongoing company interactions and high-level exchanges between the two nations. Henning Kristoffersen, commercial counselor at the Norwegian embassy in China, characterized Norway’s participation as a shift from promoting individual products toward offering comprehensive solutions and fostering long-term collaboration.
Norwegian dietary and nutrition brand NY03 is participating for the fifth consecutive year, citing the event’s role in enhancing market connections and expanding business cooperation in China. The company anticipates this year’s fair will bring it closer to partners and consumers as it deepens its market presence.
European business representatives also view CIFTIS as a valuable platform for engagement. Gianni Di Giovanni, vice-president of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China and chairman of Eni China BV, highlighted services trade as an increasingly strategic sector that drives growth, innovation, connectivity, and international collaboration. He identified significant potential for enhanced China-Europe cooperation in areas such as green development, artificial intelligence, healthcare, life sciences, sustainable mobility, advanced manufacturing, and digital services.
At the same time, Di Giovanni stressed the need for ongoing dialogue concerning market access, regulatory transparency, cross-border data flows, and mutual recognition of standards. He described CIFTIS as crucial not only for business networking but also for building trust and understanding necessary for sustainable partnerships.
As global trade patterns and supply chains continue to evolve, participants at CIFTIS underscore the fair’s role in facilitating practical cooperation, establishing durable market links, and providing a forum to discuss the business environment in China. The event is seen as a key channel for international companies aiming to access the Chinese market, connect with local partners and consumers, and engage in dialogue on regulatory and operational issues.