An Italian sculptor performs at the sixth China International Import Expo in Shanghai on Nov 6, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

ROME — The sixth China International Import Expo provided an important platform for Italian companies to access the expanding Chinese market, Italian entrepreneurs and business leaders say. 

The expo, held from Nov 5 to 10 in Shanghai, attracted attendees from 154 countries, regions and international organizations.

Rhea Vendors Group, a leading producer of customized vending machines in Italy, took part in the expo for the third time, showcasing a range of coffee machines.

Claudio Valdetara, marketing director of Rhea, said the expo presented an invaluable opportunity for companies, finance and banking entities, and industries looking for partners to expand their reach.

"At the CIIE we aspire to be recognized as ambassadors of Italian coffee and lifestyle in the Chinese market."

Founded in 1960, Rhea has a presence in about 90 countries and regions. The company aims to leverage China's manufacturing prowess alongside its own brand strengths to deliver the finest cups of coffee and beverages to local consumers.

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Italy is an official exhibition organizer of the CIIE, leading seven Italian companies to take part in the exhibition this year.

Fan Xianwei, the chamber's secretary-general, said he had received positive feedback before the expo from many Italian companies that were keen on showcasing their products.

"I believe that the CIIE is a very good channel for Italian products to enter the Chinese market and that the road will become wider in the future, and more companies will go to China," Fan said.

The expo is a platform not only to display products and services but also to communicate and build partnerships, Fan said. It reflects China's commitment to providing a more open and friendly business environment, thereby promoting win-win cooperation between Chinese and foreign companies.

Pamfilov Stanislav, owner of the Italian wine producer Ca'Botta, which was a second-time expo participant, said: "Last time was a success. We got a lot of presentations and met various distributors and clients. We found people with a keen interest in our wines, and it marked a successful start for our business."

He emphasized the significance of the expo's complete return to in-person exhibitions. "It is very important for us that the CIIE is coming back offline because wine is a traditional good, not virtual."

He also identified the Chinese market as one that is extensive and rapidly evolving.