French companies look forward to entente cordiale as CIIE approaches

Representatives from French industry associations and companies expressed their recognition of the China International Import Expo and their high expectations for the sixth edition at a promotional conference for the event held in Paris in April, Jiefang Daily reported.

With China being the world's second-largest consumer market, many foreign companies, including those from France, are hoping to use the CIIE to tap the potential of the Chinese market and capitalize on its rapid development.

During the conference, organizations including Business France, the French Interprofessional Pork Council — also known as INAPORC, LVMH and L'Oreal signed up for the sixth CIIE to be held this year.

INAPORC alone will be represented by more than 20 meat-processing and slaughter companies at the expo.

Representatives from multiple French companies attending the conference agreed that the CIIE has evolved into a pivotal platform for companies worldwide to enhance their foothold in China.

According to one representative, the promotional conference revealed the tremendous growth potential of the Chinese market. Another representative noted that riding the wave of its opening-up drive to enter the Chinese market is one of their smartest decisions.

When one thinks of France, perfumes and luxury fashion items often come to mind. However, agricultural products are the second-largest category of French exports to China, following aerospace equipment.

As the sole national industry alliance for the pig, cattle, sheep and horse sectors in France, INAPORC is dedicated to supporting the growth of such industries and their global market expansion efforts.

Hu Dan, deputy representative of INAPORC in China, recalled: "During the inaugural CIIE, the then French minister of agriculture, Stephane Le Foll, visited our pavi-lion to support our promotional efforts."

French President Emmanuel Macron attended the second CIIE to endorse his nation's products. He sampled steaks at INAPORC's pavi-lion, attracting long lines of visitors, Hu added.

Thierry Meyer, president of INAPORC, stressed the significance of the Chinese market as it is the French pork industry's biggest partner. INAPORC has attended the CIIE for five consecutive years.

Over those five expos, an average of more than 80 French enterprises have participated in each edition. The tentative transaction amounts total $15.1 billion, ranking among the highest of all foreign countries attending the CIIE.

According to a representative of Business France, China is a crucial partner for France. The two countries have highly complementary economies and immense potential for trade in sectors such as food and agricultural products. Business France has been bringing small and medium-sized enterprises to the CIIE for the past five years and will continue to participate in the sixth edition.

Next year will mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France. France has been invited to serve as the guest of honor country for the seventh CIIE in 2024.