Malaysian goods shine at China-Asean expo

NANNING: Hall 14 of the Nanning International Conference and Exhibition Centre in Nanning, Guangxi, China, was abuzz with visitors drawn to the Malaysian products on display at the 5th China-Asean Expo (Caexpo), which was launched yesterday.

In one corner, two Proton cars - a white Saga and a sporty-looking Symphony (Satria Neo) in orange and black stripes - held sway, drawing admiring glances and close scrutiny.

Other Malaysian exhibitors were not overlooked either, as visitors made their acquaintance with Made-in-Malaysia products ranging from assorted jam tarts from Sabah and automotive parts, to Ipoh white coffee and high-end stainless steel jewellery.

With almost 100 firms and government agencies from Malaysia promoting their products and services in the 2,900 square metres of exhibition space, there was certainly plenty to see, touch and sample.

The Malaysian booths in Hall 14 were part of the 3,300 booths from China and the 10 Asean countries participating in the Caexpo until October 25.

The event is co-sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of China and its Asean counterparts as well as the Asean Secretariat, and organised by the government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China.

Held annually in Nanning, it is aimed at spurring the setting up of the China-Asean Free Trade Area (Cafta) and serving as a platform for China and Asean to enhance their bilateral economic and trading cooperation.

The expo, which is highlighting information and communications technology (ICT) cooperation as its theme this year, is divided into four exhibition pavilions, namely the Pavilion of Cities of Charm, the Pavilion of Investment Cooperation, the Pavilion of Commodity Trade and the Pavilion of Agricultural Applicable Technology.

Malaysia External Trade Development Corp trade commissioner Roslina Long said Caexpo is a valuable opportunity for Malaysian firms to showcase their products to China and other Asean countries.

Also held concurrently with the Caexpo is the 5th China-Asean Business Summit and other forums and conferences, including the 3rd China-Asean ICT Week.

By New Straits Times (by Chan Cheng Tuan)