Pascal Gongrand, Commercial Counselor at the Embassy of France in China, provides an overview of the French Pavilion at the China International Fair for Trade in Services in Beijing on August 30 (ZHANG SHASHA) 

As the Guest of Honor for the 2024 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS), scheduled in Beijing from September 12 to 16, France will set up a National Pavilion that will serve as the centerpiece of a series of events focusing on three major themes: health, sports and “Attractiveness of France,” said Pascal Gongrand, Commercial Counselor at the Embassy of France in China, at a promotional event held in Beijing on August 30.  

“We are eagerly anticipating our role as the Guest of Honor at the 2024 CIFTIS.” said Gongrand. “2024 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and China, as well as the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism,” he contined, emphasizing the exceptional significance of this milestone year for France-China relations.  

Ten French exhibitors, along with numerous partners, will participate on-site at the fair, showcasing their unique products and services, he said. 

The French Pavilion will be located at the center of the main exhibition hall in the China National Convention Center. The design of the pavilion drew inspiration from iconic Parisian architecture, featuring a replica of the Arc de Triomphe at the pavilion entrance and archways resembling the Pont de Bir-Hakeim within the exhibition area. The entrance and reception areas will be equipped with floor and vertical screens to showcase France’s cultural heritage, landscapes, sporting events and local brands.  

Gongrand said France has maintained its position as the top destination in Europe for foreign direct investment for five consecutive years, hosting 1,815 projects driven by foreign companies from 56 countries, with a primary focus on the industrial and innovation sectors. Additionally, France is the leading tourist destination in Europe, attracting 100 million visitors annually, with the tourism industry generating over 200 billion euros ($220.9 billion) in revenue each year. 

Li Yi, Deputy Director of the Beijing Municipal Commerce Bureau, said at the event that preparations for the 2024 CIFTIS are progressing smoothly, with a focus on enhancing internationalization and specialization.  

Exhibiting and participating is also being made more convenient. With just two weeks remaining until the opening of the 2024 CIFTIS, the organizers are committed to providing a more comfortable and convenient experience for all exhibitors and attendees, Li added.  

Copyedited by G.P. Wilson 

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