The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) is set to lead a delegation of over 500 representatives from 57 Singaporean companies to the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, taking place from 5 to 10 November 2025. This participation underscores the ongoing efforts to bolster trade relations and explore new growth avenues between Singapore and China, as the two nations celebrate 35 years of diplomatic relations and three years since the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) came into effect.
Despite global economic challenges, China remains a pivotal market for Singaporean enterprises, with 71% of Singapore businesses maintaining a strong presence there. The CIIE has been a crucial platform for these companies, generating over $533m in trade value since 2018. This year, the Singapore Pavilion, themed “Singapore-China: Envisioning the Next Horizon,” will span 1,213 square metres, showcasing strengths in services, food and agriculture, and consumer goods.
In conjunction with the expo, the Singapore-China Trade and Investment Forum will be held on 6 November, fostering dialogue and potential partnerships. Last year, the forum saw the signing of 15 memorandums of understanding worth over $60m.
Kok Ping Soon, CEO of SBF, highlighted the significance of the CIIE, stating, “The CIIE stands as a powerful testament to China’s commitment to openness and international cooperation, offering Singapore businesses a gateway to one of the world’s most dynamic markets.”
The SBF will continue its collaboration with the Bank of China Singapore Branch, which has been a financial services partner at CIIE since 2018. Shi Wei, General Manager of the branch, emphasised the bank’s role in supporting Singapore enterprises in the Chinese market, leveraging its extensive expertise and global network.
