The China International Import Expo bureau releases a list of exhibitors who have signed up for the third edition on March 12. [Photo/WeChat account: scofcom]

The China International Import Expo (CIIE) bureau released a list of exhibitors who have signed up for the third CIIE to domestic buyers on March 12.

The list includes 143 companies, 40 percent of which are Fortune Global 500 enterprises, such as Swiss drugmaker Roche Group and Japanese electronic manufacturer Panasonic. These companies have contracted a total exhibition area of more than 100,000 square meters, among which more than 60 enterprises have contracted booth areas of more than 600 sq m.

Wang Binjie, assistant to the general manager of the bureau's business exhibition division, said that the list was usually announced at the end of the registration period, but this year, under the premise of careful preparation, the list was released more than a month in advance.

Yao Guoliang, general manager of Roche Diagnostics China, said that by announcing the list of exhibitors in advance, enterprises will have more time to explore business opportunities and sales channels, and get to know more partners.

The early announcement of the list is a "gift" not only for exhibitors but also for buyers.

According to Zhang Jing, general manager assistant of China Eastern Aviation Import & Export Corp, early access to exhibitor information will give purchasers more time to prepare for matchmaking and business negotiations.

Wang Hongwei, head of the bureau's buyers service division, said the list will provide more opportunities for investment attraction, and exchanges and cooperation with relevant departments throughout the country. Relevant departments can also carry out basic work such as business environment promotion and investment policy publicity to attract more foreign investment.

The bureau held an online video news conference with some exhibitors and buyers as part of the release.