From Mahnoor Makhdoom
Kunming: The 9th China–South Asia Expo and the 6th China–South Asia Cooperation Forum officially opened in Kunming, Yunnan Province, drawing participation from over 73 countries, regions, and international organizations. This year’s events, held under the theme “Solidarity and Cooperation for Common Development,” signal a continued commitment to strengthening economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties between China and its South Asian neighbors.
The 9th Expo, running from June 19 to 24 at the Kunming Dianchi International Convention & Exhibition Center, features over 2,500 enterprises. The scale of participation is unprecedented, with South Asian countries, particularly India and Pakistan – each hosting 140 booths showcasing everything from handicrafts to emerging technologies. The expo comprises 16 themed exhibition halls, highlighting sectors such as modern agriculture, green energy, digital innovation, traditional medicine, and cross-border e-commerce.
In addition to trade showcases, the expo offers visitors a taste of Yunnan’s local culture through the “Sojourning in Yunnan” section, where ethnic crafts, specialty teas, tropical fruits, and live cultural performances provide an immersive experience. Nearly 40 supporting events are scheduled throughout the week, including forums, investment matchmaking, and procurement meetings aimed at fostering regional trade partnerships and project cooperation.
A highlight of the expo is the special focus on Sri Lanka, the theme country for this year. Dedicated events have been organized to promote Sri Lankan tourism, investment opportunities, and cultural exchanges. Leaders and diplomats from across South and Southeast Asia – including from Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Laos, Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Myanmar – attended the event and praised its role in advancing practical cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
China’s Vice Minister of Commerce, Yan Dong, emphasized the country’s desire to expand cooperation in areas such as the digital economy, artificial intelligence, green development, and medical science.
Held concurrently with the expo, the 6th China–South Asia Cooperation Forum took place on June 20. The forum’s theme, “Join Hands for Open and Inclusive Development,” reflected a shared regional ambition to deepen collaboration. Delegates discussed key challenges and strategic goals, including climate change resilience, water management, digital infrastructure, and regional connectivity. Pakistani representative called for stronger multilateral frameworks to support sustainable development and enhance joint responses to regional issues.
Since its inception in 2013, the China–South Asia Expo has grown into a vital platform for regional engagement.
To date, it has facilitated over US$110 billion in trade and supported more than 20,000 businesses. In 2024 alone, trade volume between China and South Asian countries reached nearly US$200 billion – double the figure from a decade earlier, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 6.3%.
Wang Ning, the Party Secretary of Yunnan, reiterated the province’s strategic role as a bridgehead for Belt and Road cooperation and promised to continue expanding economic ties with South Asia and beyond.
The 2025 expo is not only a venue for high-level economic dialogue but also a celebration of cultural diversity and people-to-people exchange. Interactive elements, such as live-streamed market tours, ethnic dance performances, and treasure hunts organized by CGTN, have attracted a large number of local and international visitors.
With its blend of commerce, culture, and cooperation, the Kunming event continues to enhance regional integration and mutual understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.
