West China expo adds new look

The 15th Western China International Fair to be held in October in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province, will be divided into two phases for the first time, according to the Sichuan Bureau of Expo Affairs.

The first phase, from Oct 23 to Oct 26 will introduce industrial products and promote investment. During this period, the fair will highlight industries such as electronic information, high-end manufacturing, aerospace engineering, new materials, and other industries based in Western China.

The second phase, from Oct 30 to Nov 3, will focus on consumer goods and trade cooperation. At this time, crafts, souvenirs, furniture, household appliances, fashionable clothes, leisure tourism products and health foods will be on display.

Since its inaugural event in 2000, the annual trade fair has promoted the government’s "go west" campaign. The expo has benefited Chengdu and the economic development of all of Western China.

Last year, the 14th-edition of the fair attracted over 4,000 businesses from 72 countries and regions. The event witnessed the signing of investment agreements worth $92.7 billion, and the total trade volume was roughly $18 billion.