The first CIIE U-Fair, an extension of the China International Import Expo (CIIE), made its debut at theweekend at the National Exhibition and Convention Center inQingpu District, six weeks after the 8th CIIE.

This consumer gala focuses on sales to the consumer end while simultaneously attracting professional buyers, service providers, and channel distributors.

"The U-Fair aims to further expand imports and amplify the spillover effect of the CIIE," said Wu Zhengping, deputy director of the CIIE Bureau. "Additionally, it seeks to sustain the momentum of the 'CIIE Consumption Season' to stimulate consumer spending."

Atthe Qingpu booth, an array of distinctive products immediately catches the eye: edible and ornamental mushroom products, enticingly colorful Liantang zhuanggao (steamed rice cake), creatively designed AI-printed coffee, and a diverse range of press-on nails.

At the center stage of the booth are the Baihe strawberries. Coinciding with the Baihe Strawberry Culture Festival, the booth not only showcases strawberry products but also features various strawberry-themed cultural and creative merchandise, fully highlighting Baihe Town's reputation as the "Hometown of Chinese Strawberries" and the characteristics of itsnationalgeographicalindication product.

"The scene we've created this time serves both as a new lifestyle scenario catering to the diverse needs of residents and as an easily accessible new consumption scenario, making the slogan, 'Qingpuisn’tfar,beautyiscloser,' more tangible and meaningful," said Guo Huiqing,deputydirector of the Qingpu District Culture and Tourism Bureau.

The trade fair has brought together more than 700 global companies from over 60 countries. It features a wide array of products closely related to daily life, including food, daily necessities, healthcare products, and goods tailored for the elderly.

For example,the Swiss Centers Group brought about products from 27 brands, covering food, wine, healthcare products and more. Some of them, such as the "marmot herbal ointment" Puralpina, made their debut at the CIIE while others, such as Frey chocolate, have joined for several consecutive years.

"The U-Fair is likely to provide our exhibitors with more channels to connect with distributors and consumers," said Xiao Zhen, CEO of the group. "Therefore, we will be launching more special offer products at the event. As it is the end of the year, we are also offering gift boxes and discounted prices on products that specifically align with the Chinese consumption habits."