Preparations for the China-CEEC Investment and Trade Expo, 17th China Zhejiang Investment and Trade Symposium (ZJITS) and 14th China International Consumer Goods Fair (CICGF) are progressing smoothly, according to a press conference held on May 27.

During the press conference, the Eastern European countries of Poland and Croatia were announced as guests of honor of the first China-CEEC Investment and Trade Expo.

CICGF and  the Central and Eastern European Countries Products Fair have invited 5,160 overseas merchants from 77 countries and regions to take part in the events. CICGF is expected to feature over 4,000 shell schemes, while the CEE countries products fair is expected to attract 36 enterprises that will exhibit around 3,000 products.

Abiding by the theme of "expanding opening-up and cooperation and jointly building the Silk Road", the expositions will hold investment symposiums, trade exhibitions, business forums and cultural activities. Government leaders and representatives of business enterprises from 16 CEE countries have confirmed their attendance of the China-CEEC Expo.

Officials from Ningbo said that the China-CEEC Investment and Trade Expo is an important step by the city to implement the proposed 'Belt and Road Initiative' and 'Yangtze River Economic Belt Strategy'. Ningbo city officials hope to strengthen the exchange and cooperation between China and CEE countries and strive to become the permanent host of the Expo.

Ningbo is expected to become the first choice city for two-way investments and cultural exchanges between CEE countries and China. The city also aims to become the first choice for enterprises wishing to enter the Chinese market.