The Singapore Business Federation led a delegation of Singapore exhibitors to the 21st China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), taking place in Nanning, Guangxi, China, from 24 to 28 September this year. CAEXPO serves as an important platform for Singapore and other ASEAN countries to explore new avenues for trade and investment cooperation, while also facilitating networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration opportunities. It helps Singapore companies expand their reach into China and other ASEAN markets.

Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment & Manpower Dr Koh Poh Koon graced the opening ceremony and toured the Singapore Pavilions, which include the Singapore National Pavilion and the Singapore Commodity Trade Pavilion. Themed "Singapore-China: A Collaborative Partnership to Advance ASEAN's Growth" (星耀东盟，新中携手，共创辉煌), the Pavilions feature 22 and 20 Singapore exhibitors respectively, including 13 trade associations and chambers represented under the Singapore National Pavilion. SMS Koh visited the booths, engaging in discussions with exhibitors about their products and services.

ASEAN, with over 660 million people and a combined GDP of about US$3 trillion¹, is set to play a crucial role in global growth as supply chains evolve and trade patterns shift amid the complexities of the global economy. Singapore is a key player in this landscape, leveraging its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and status as a leading financial hub.

Dr Jun Yang, CEO of YLY Health Products and Technology SG, expressed excitement about the company’s first-time presence at the event, saying, “I am thrilled to announce our debut participation. CAEXPO provides an exceptional platform to showcase our unique offerings, and we look forward to forging new collaborations that will not only broaden our business horizons but also contribute to the growth of the health and wellness industry. We are excited to explore the possibilities that lie ahead, and we are eager to connect with more people, share insights, and uncover new business opportunities."

SBF hosted the Singapore Day Seminar on 24 September, with SBF Chairman Mr Lim Ming Yan delivering the welcome address. The seminar featured speakers from the China-ASEAN Mercantile Exchange (CAMEX), DBS Bank, OCBC, Pacific International Lines and Singapore Post.

SBF Chairman Mr Lim Ming Yan said, "Singapore has consistently played an active role in fostering investment and trade between Chinese and ASEAN businesses, facilitating collaboration in areas like technology, markets, and supply chains. According to the SBF National Business Survey 2023/2024, out of 1,056 Singapore companies surveyed across various key sectors, half already have a presence in China. Among those planning to expand overseas, 22% have chosen the Chinese market. Looking ahead, I believe the Chinese market will remain a key growth area for Singapore businesses."

The Singapore Night networking dinner will take place on the evening of 25 September, with SMS Koh joining around 140 Singapore exhibitors, companies operating in China, and VIP guests from the People's Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. The dinner will begin with opening remarks delivered by Mr Teo Siong Seng, Chairman of the SBF Internationalisation Action Committee.


Annex A - List of Exhibitors at the Singapore Pavilion during the 21^st CAEXPO

¹ asean.org | https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/investment-report-2023.pdf