Chongqing - The 19th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair has record-breaking participation of over 300 overseas exhibitors at the Belt and Road International Pavilion, tripling the figure since the pavilion's inception in 2015.

With more than 20,000 professionals from over 100 countries and regions attending, the fair serves as a global showcase for outstanding cultural tourism and consumer products. 

During the fair, Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the first Forum on Building up China's Cultural Strength, calling for enhanced efforts to shoulder a new cultural mission and provide strong cultural and intellectual strength to build a stronger nation and achieve national rejuvenation.

Culture fuels business activities for a thriving economy

This year's fair celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by showcasing the achievements of cultural cooperation in the Belt and Road International Pavilion.

Visitors can not only explore diverse exhibition booths, featuring cultural tourism, entertainment, art designs, innovative creations, and digital culture of Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, but also admire Australia's indigenous artworks and stay updated on the latest cultural trends.

Baridolyaei Mahdi, an Iraqi exhibitor, is among the participants showcasing his products at the Belt and Road International Pavilion. His team has brought a diverse range of products, including saffron, Persian carpets, and handicrafts, all originating from Iraq.

"This is our first time participating in this cultural industry fair after the pandemic," he said. He remains optimistic about the market's recovery. 

Mahdi emphasized the significance of cultural exhibitions in fostering international cultural exchange. "Culture enables us to engage in business activities and contributes to the economy," he added.

Local cultural enterprises to thrive in the global arena

Southwest China's Chongqing places significant emphasis on the fair, recognizing its potential to broaden the international horizons of local cultural enterprises and bolster competitive advantages. 

The Chongqing Pavilion features diverse cultural products, including exquisite Miao ethnic costumes, Liangping Woodblock paintings, and the iconic Dazu Rock Carvings from Chongqing.

According to Chen Song, Deputy Director of Chongqing Dazu District Cultural and Tourism Commission, over 100 cultural products, primarily from Dazu District, have been carefully selected for display. Among them are a series of cultural items related to the national intangible cultural heritage of the renowned Dazu Rock Carvings, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and artistic legacy.

"Chongqing's active involvement will open its door to new opportunities, enabling our local cultural enterprises to thrive in the global arena," said Mo Xiaoping, Dean of the Business Planning Department, Chongqing Technology and Business University

Mo believes the rapid development of the cultural and tourism industry will drive the high-quality growth of Chongqing's economy in sectors such as catering, hotels, transportation, consumer goods manufacturing, and the digital sector. 

By bringing together numerous exhibitors, the fair creates opportunities for business cooperation, investment, and trade. According to Mo, Chongqing's cultural firms will participate in cultural exchanges with exhibitors from the countries along the Belt and Road, aiming to boost foreign trade and meet the diverse cultural needs of its citizens.