Shanghai's trade role is key, Xi says

Financial center will take 'bold, creative steps' to aid investment

China will capitalize on the role of Shanghai and surrounding areas in opening up, President Xi Jinping said at the opening ceremony of the China International Import Expo in the city on Monday.

The China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone will be expanded, Xi said, adding that the country will encourage and support "bold and creative steps" by the municipality to advance investment and trade liberalization so that more of its successful practices can be replicated in other parts of China.