The 2025 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) is currently taking place in Beijing. At the exhibition area of the Georgian Embassy, Georgian representative Levan is inviting visitors to taste Georgian wines in fluent Chinese. Georgia, located at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains and along the Black Sea, has historically been an important trade hub on the Silk Road and is China’s first free trade partner in Eurasia. China has been Georgia’s largest export market and third-largest trading partner for years.
Levan said, “Both China and Georgia have long histories and rich cultures. In recent years, more Georgians are learning Chinese. In 2024, China and Georgia signed a visa exemption agreement, making it easier for Chinese tourists to visit Georgia and enjoy local cuisine, wine, and scenic landscapes.”
This year’s fair attracted 85 countries and international organizations, with nearly 2,000 companies exhibiting. The embassies of 20 Belt and Road countries gathered in the “Dazzling Space” cultural and tourism service area, showcasing products such as wine, coffee, and amber jewelry, attracting wide visitor interest.
Levan added, “This is my seventh time participating in CIFTIS. I have met over a thousand Chinese friends through this platform, which gives me more confidence to develop my business in China. I hope the two countries strengthen trade and cultural exchanges, bringing Georgian wines into more Chinese homes.”
China’s large market provides more opportunities and choices for the world. According to the General Administration of Customs, in the first eight months of this year, China’s imports and exports with Belt and Road countries reached 15.3 trillion yuan, up 5.4% year-on-year, accounting for 51.7% of total trade.
At the Nepal Embassy stand, visitors can see handmade thangka paintings and traditional wool and cashmere scarves. Staff member Panbo said, “This is my second time at CIFTIS. The platform allows us to connect with visitors and handicraft enthusiasts and facilitates business discussions with exhibitors from multiple countries.”
At the Sri Lanka Embassy stand, red tea-flavored ice cream, gemstones, and cinnamon products attracted visitors. Staff member Cheng Hao said, “China continues to open up, offering visa-free travel for many countries. Sri Lanka and China are traditional friendly neighbors with close cooperation in culture and trade. Through the fair, we aim to promote local cultural and tourism resources and attract more visitors from around the world.”