The third Global Digital Trade Expo, set to take place from September 25 to 29 in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, is poised to drive the advancement of digital trade by fostering international cooperation, innovation, and shared growth. At a press conference on September 18, Assistant Minister of Commerce Tang Wenhong, Zhejiang Vice Governor Lu Shan, and Hangzhou Mayor Yao Gaoyuan highlighted the key features of the upcoming event.

Expanding Global Cooperation Opportunities

“We are focused on broadening our openness and enhancing international collaboration,” said Tang Wenhong. The expo will host leading enterprises from 32 countries and regions, with international exhibitors comprising over 20% of the total in terms of both participation and exhibition space. Additionally, about one-quarter of the 400 new products and technologies debuting at the event are from international firms, a significant increase from last year. The expo aims to serve as a prominent platform showcasing China's commitment to high-level openness and global trade engagement.

Innovation at the Forefront

Tang emphasized the role of innovation, noting that the number of product premieres and first-time showcases will be four times higher than the previous edition. A newly-established future industries section will spotlight advanced technologies, such as intelligent robotics and the low-altitude economy. Moreover, interactive elements, including digital humans and naked-eye 3D technology, will enhance the attendee experience. For the first time, the event will feature competitions like the Digital Human Debate and AI Electronic Music Composition contests, underlining its focus on cutting-edge digital trends.

Promoting Win-Win Global Partnerships

Tang also highlighted the importance of shared success, stating that the expo will extend cooperation initiatives, offering new opportunities through China's evolving development. Following last year's success of the “Silk Road E-commerce Day,” this year's event will deepen the e-commerce ecosystem by expanding its activities. The expo will also launch the “Digital Trade Africa Day,” establishing a new model for China-Africa digital trade cooperation. In terms of deliverables, the event will unveil the inaugural “China Digital Commerce Development Report,” complementing the ongoing release of reports on China's digital trade and Silk Road e-commerce partnerships.

International Participation and Key Reports

Zhejiang Vice Governor Lu Shan stressed the high standards set for this year's expo, noting that over 1,500 companies have confirmed participation, and more than 30,000 professional buyers are registered to attend. Additionally, the event will feature the “World Mayors Dialogue” during which 23 sister cities, including Barcelona, will collaborate on initiatives such as the Global Smart Cities Congress. Lu further mentioned that this expo will debut the “China Digital Commerce Development Report,” in addition to the continuation of key reports on China's digital trade and Silk Road e-commerce collaboration.

By focusing on innovation, openness, and mutual benefit, the third Global Digital Trade Expo is set to strengthen global digital trade ties and solidify China's leadership in the rapidly growing digital economy.