Linyi RCEP Expo opens, showcasing city's global trade vision

The 5th RCEP (Shandong) Import Expo kicked off in Linyi, East China's Shandong province, on April 20, bringing together more than 5,000 domestic and international buyers as well as over 400 exhibitors from 48 countries.

As China's largest commodity distribution hub, Linyi is accelerating its international expansion under the provincial government's plan to transform it into a global commodity and logistics hub by 2035.

The 2025 data underscores Linyi's growing global presence. The city's trade network now spans 220 countries and regions, with Linyi Trade City achieving market transactions worth 708.53 billion yuan ($103.92 billion), logistics turnover of 1.08 trillion yuan, and foreign trade imports and exports reaching 124.52 billion yuan. The city organized 267 overseas exhibitions in 52 countries last year, attracting 49,000 international buyers.

International buyers gather at a booth at the 5th RCEP (Shandong) Import Expo in Linyi, Shandong. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Private enterprises, which account for over 97 percent of Linyi's foreign trade entities, are driving this transformation. A notable example is Du Yue, a local business owner who successfully launched her tent products in Russia, Central Asia, and Africa through Linyi's self-organized international exhibitions. 

"We have seamlessly catered to domestic and international markets and integrated into the new dual-circulation development paradigm," Du said. 

With its internationalization and digitalization drive in full swing, Linyi is steadily establishing itself as a key link in global supply chains.

（chinadaily.com.cn）