A visitor asks queries at the reservation office of the second CIIE in Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

The second China International Import Expo (CIIE) is scheduled to be held from Nov 5 to 10 in Shanghai, according to a news conference on July 26.

The CIIE is a significant move by the government to promote trade liberalization and economic globalization, as well as the country's further opening up to the world.

"More than 3,000 companies from over 150 countries and regions have confirmed their participation. In addition, the number of newly launched products and technologies is expected to exceed those of last year," said Wang Bingnan, vice-minister of commerce and director of the CIIE.

The CIIE is composed of a comprehensive exhibition of nations, a business exhibition of enterprises and an international economic forum.

This year, the China pavilion will focus on the achievements of economic development for the 70th anniversary of the founding of New China. Other countries will also display developments in trade and investment.

The exhibition for enterprises includes seven sectors: technology life, automobiles, equipment, medical equipment and medical care, quality life, service trade, food and agricultural products.

To date, more than 250 of the world's Fortune 500 companies and industry leaders have signed up for the 2nd CIIE. It will have an average exhibition area of 93 square meters for each enterprise, an increase of more than 20 percent over the first session.

The economic forum will invite relevant national politicians and heads of international organizations to give speeches on topics including "opening, regulation and business environment", "artificial intelligence and innovation development", "WTO reform and free trade agreement" and "digital age and e-commerce innovation development".

Shanghai has established a special customs service agency to serve the needs of the CIIE and provide easy access for participants and exhibits.

To ensure the security during the 2nd CIIE, local government has made plans and will employ more technical methods in coordinating the transportation systems.

The second China International Import Expo will be held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai from Nov 5 to 10. [Photo from Wechat account shanghaifabu]

Jinbao, the mascot of CIIE, makes a welcoming gesture in front of the national flags. [Photo from Wechat account shanghaifabu]