Latin American, Caribbean countries launch trade platform for China

Diplomats, business representatives and cultural figures from more than 40 countries gathered in Beijing on Friday for the official launch of the Latin America and Caribbean Countries Trade and Cultural Expo.

Organizers have described the event as the first comprehensive Latin American Caribbean platform in China.

The event, known as LAC Day 2026, is scheduled to take place on Sept 19 and 20 in Beijing and is jointly organized by the diplomatic missions of Latin American and Caribbean countries in China.

Officials said the initiative signals a shift toward more structured and institutionalized exchanges between China and the Latin America and Caribbean region.

Hallam Henry, Barbadian ambassador to China, said the event is intended to serve as "a bridge bringing together people, businesses and nations across continents", fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.

"This expo is not just a showcase of products and services," Henry said, "it is a testament to the enduring friendship and partnership between Latin America, the Caribbean and China."

Martin Charles, Dominican ambassador to China and dean of the LAC diplomatic corps, described the initiative as a milestone for the region's collective engagement in China.

"This is the first event of its kind organized by the Latin American and Caribbean diplomatic community in China," Charles said.

"It reflects our shared commitment to strengthening connections not only in trade, but also in culture, tourism and innovation."

Charles said that the region offers abundant natural resources, emerging markets and a growing pool of entrepreneurial talent, while China provides access to advanced technologies and global markets.

"Our goal is to build lasting partnerships and open new channels of cooperation," he added.

The expo is expected to feature a wide range of activities, including cultural performances, food exhibitions, fashion shows, business matchmaking sessions and country promotion events. Organizers said the program is designed to combine cultural immersion with commercial engagement, reflecting a broader trend of integrating culture and trade.

According to Liu Kang, president of the event's management company, the initiative aims to create "a larger-scale, more immersive and more influential platform" for LAC countries in China.

"This is not only a cultural showcase, but also a bridge of friendship, a link for cooperation and a shared vision for the future," Liu said.