A CIIE-themed bazaar is held on East \r\nNanjing Road in Huangpu district during the May 5 Shopping Festival. \r\n[Photo/WeChat account: shhplyj]

As the May 5 shopping \r\nseason kicked off in Shanghai, a grand bazaar was held on East Nanjing \r\nRoad in Huangpu district to boost consumption.

The bazaar is \r\ninspired by the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the world's \r\nfirst national-level expo focusing on imports, and brought together \r\nnearly 10,000 specialty products from 40 countries and regions, \r\nincluding many of the best offerings at the CIIE. Items range from \r\nclothing to food, wine, cosmetics, and handicrafts.

The \r\n550-square-meter area is divided into different zones for national \r\npavilions, comprehensive products, and affordable luxury goods. There \r\nare booths set up for CIIE cultural and creative products, gourmet food,\r\n and performances.

Embassies of various countries in China as well\r\n as business associations are participating in the event, while 16 \r\ncountries have set up national pavilions, including Argentina, Belgium, \r\nMexico, Sri Lanka, and Turkey, each designed with its own \r\ncharacteristics. Visitors are able to sample the products before \r\npurchase and learn about the cultural connotations behind them.

The global food zone offers a wide selection of delicious options, and is open until late at night.

Digital renminbi payment is allowed, in addition to rebates, discounts and various promotional offers.

Business hours: 10 am – 10 pm

Address: Century Square, No 555 East Nanjing Road, Huangpu district