Ikea sets its sights on northwest region

Swedish furniture retailer Ikea has set its sights on China's vast northwestern market and is looking to cash in on the growing opportunities from the nation's Belt and Road Initiative.

As part of its efforts, Ikea will start its Xi'an store on Thursday with 57 room settings, more than 8,000 products, a 633-seater restaurant and the free Small Land childcare facility to give local buyers special shopping experiences.

Located in the western suburban of Xi'an, capital of Shaanxi province and the largest city in Northwest China, Ikea's Xi'an store stands next to the city's third-ring road and is well-connected with the adjacent transportation facilities.