UK Trade Commissioner for China Lewis Neal at a press conference held on September 6 in Xiamen, Fujian Province (WEI YAO) 

As this year’s Guest Country of Honor, the United Kingdom will make its strongest presence at the China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT) in the event’s history, sending a record delegation of more than 100 companies. UK Trade Commissioner for China Lewis Neal said at a press conference on September 6 in Xiamen City, Fujian Province.   

Themed “Join Hands with China, Invest in the Future,” the 2025 CIFIT will be held in Xiamen from September 8 to 11.   

“CIFIT is an ideal platform to show the UK is an open, stable and connected economy,” Neal said. “With unique access to global finance, and English-speaking and stable business environment, the UK is an ideal partner for businesses around the world, including in China.”    

The UK recently unveiled its Modern Industrial Strategy, a 10-year plan to boost business investment and grow the industries of the future in the UK.   

CIFIT offers a hugely important opportunity for businesses to connect with Chinese partners in sectors including financial services, health and advanced manufacturing, he said. 

Beyond strengthening ties with China at the national level, the UK is also working to engage with Chinese provinces such as Fujian, Jiangsu and Jiangxi, Neal said.    

This year’s CIFIT is its 25th edition, which coincides with the 45th anniversary of Xiamen’s designation as a special economic zone. “So we are optimistic about the future of UK-China trade relations,” he said.   

“We expect tangible collaborations and concrete business outcomes to emerge from this fair,” he added.  

The UK National Pavilion, themed “Invest in GREAT,” features an exhibition space of over 400 square meters. It highlights the core elements of the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, including innovations in healthcare and life sciences, the ecosystem of financial and professional services, as well as clean energy and green infrastructure.    

In addition to business highlights, the pavilion will also showcase British culture and creative concepts.    

Copyedited by Elsbeth van Paridon 

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