Southeast Asian trade fair's host town uncovered
The 22nd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) is set to take place in Nanning, Guangxi, on September 17, underscoring China's push to deepen economic ties with ASEAN. This event, which has evolved from a platform for promoting multilateral free trade, now also drives cross-border investment and technology partnerships.
Wei Chaohui, secretary-general of the Expo secretariat, emphasised the importance of the exhibition in fostering cross-border investment and technology partnerships. The event is expected to attract over 1,600 companies from 40 countries, including 470 international firms.
Thai companies are among those participating in the CAEXPO, with various enterprises expected to engage in sectors like digital economy, AI, green trade, and electric vehicles. These Thai companies are encouraged to expand their presence in the fast-growing regional market through the CAEXPO.
AI will feature prominently at the CAEXPO, alongside sustainable development and supply chain integration. Guangxi's proximity to five ASEAN states positions it as a strategic hub for sharing AI expertise with developing nations like Myanmar and Laos. In this regard, Maiyue Technology, a Guangxi-based AI company, is marketing hardware and software solutions in ASEAN. Maiyue Technology has developed tools supporting regional languages, including Thai, Khmer, and Burmese.
The ASEAN Artificial Intelligence Collaborative Innovation Centre has been set up in Guangxi to promote joint research and nurture regional innovation. This centre is not mentioned in earlier bullet points.
During the CAEXPO, negotiations and the expected signing of the upgraded Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area protocol will take place. This protocol focuses on cooperation in digital economy, AI, green trade, and other key sectors to strengthen China-ASEAN economic ties. Organisers anticipate significant agreements will be signed during the CAEXPO.
Despite global trade tensions, the CAEXPO continues independently. This event serves as a testament to the resilience and importance of China-ASEAN economic cooperation. The 22nd CAEXPO promises to be a significant event in fostering cross-border investment, technology partnerships, and strengthening China-ASEAN economic ties.
