The 24th China International Fair for Investment and Trade kicked off on Sept 8 in the port city of Xiamen, in East China's Fujian province and will run to Sept 11.

The Shanghai stand attracts a raft of visitors at CIFIT, which is currently taking place in Xiamen. [Photo/WeChat account: scofcom]

Shanghai made its debut with a fresh look and welcomed over 350 investment clients on the first day of the fair – including those from Germany, Spain, Russia, the United States, Canada, Brazil, Australia and the United Arab Emirates.

Its investment promotions pavilion received eight direct project information inquiries, including one from Dubai's National Pulse Group to connect with smart equipment and life health companies, an Italian autonomous driving car project on the hunt for prospective partners, while a US fuel component company was seeking investment projects.

Two regional promotions conferences were held at the Shanghai Pavilion on the day.

In the morning session – themed on "Opening-up – Integration Leads to High-quality Development" – the city's Jinshan district introduced its region and industries. In the afternoon session, the Hongqiao International Central Business District elaborated on its investment policies, attracting over 100 Chinese and international guests.

To engage those unable to attend, the event was live-streamed on social media platforms, attracting nearly 20,000 viewers to explore Shanghai's economic vitality, innovation drive, city charms and investment potential.