One of the world's most influential events in the service trade sector, the 2024 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) is set to take place in Beijing from September 12 to 16. CIFTIS continues to be a crucial platform for promoting global cooperation and innovation in services.

CIFTIS, held successfully for 10 consecutive years since 2012, has attracted over 900,000 professionals from 197 countries and regions. The 2024 event aims to build on this success, featuring high-level exhibitions and over 100 forums, including the release of the "China Trade in Services Development Report." These activities underscore the CIFTIS’s significance as a global hub for sharing achievements and setting trends in the service trade industry.

More than 80 countries and international organizations will participate in this year's CIFTIS, marking a new milestone in the event's history. Notably, Portugal and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization will set up independent exhibitions for the first time. France, acting as the guest of honor, will celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations with China through a specially designed pavilion, highlighting the deepening bilateral ties.

The fair is also set to host over 420 Fortune 500 companies and industry leaders, all of whom are expected to engage in negotiations and form new partnerships.

Furthermore, the 2024 CIFTIS will showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovations, with a special focus on satellite Internet, big data, low-carbon solutions, and other specialized tech applications. This year's fair will introduce groundbreaking technologies, including AI-powered orthopedic surgery robots and metaverse applications, setting the stage for future industry trends.

China's service trade has reached new heights in the first half of 2024, with a record trade volume of 3.6 trillion RMB, according to Tang Wenhong, assistant minister of commerce. This impressive growth underscores the strategic importance of CIFTIS in showcasing China's achievements and exploring new opportunities in service trade. As China continues to expand its "circle of friends" in global trade, CIFTIS remains at the forefront of efforts to enhance the quality and effectiveness of international service trade collaboration.