The China-ASEAN Expo Secretariat holds a set of bilateral talks with co-host ASEAN countries from July 7 to 9 to discuss the preparation work for the 18th CAEXPO. [Photo/China News Service]

The China-ASEAN Expo Secretariat held a set of bilateral talks with co-host ASEAN countries including Singapore, Laos, Malaysia and Thailand from July 7 to 9 to discuss the preparation works for the 18th CAEXPO.

Zeng Zhong, deputy secretary general of the CAEXPO Secretariat, introduced that this year's expo will continue to apply the same solution as last year, which integrates both online and on-site events.

He expressed his hope that co-host countries of CAEXPO can take an active role in preparing for the expo and encourage more local companies to attend the expo. 

Xaysomphet Norasingh, director of the Department of Trade Promotion of Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Laos, said that Laos will continue to be the Guest Country of Honor at the 18th China-ASEAN Expo and will cast eyes on promoting Savannakhet Province, this year's "City of Charm" through various activities, such as online promotion fairs. 

He introduced that 23 Laotian companies have applied to participate in the on-site exhibition to showcase exhibits, such as agricultural products, food and beverages, handicrafts and tourism products.

Sharimahton Mat Saleh, deputy chief executive officer of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), noted that CAEXPO is the most important platform for Malaysian companies to enter the Chinese market, and currently, 57 Malaysian companies have confirmed their attendance for the 18th CAEXPO.

Representatives from Thailand said that they will try their best to overcome difficulties brought by the COVID-19 pandemic to let more Thai companies attend the expo, and more than 70 companies have now expressed willingness to participate in the on-site exhibition.