Linyi in East China's Shandong province is emerging as a significant global market hub, attracting international buyers and strengthening trade connections. The city's success is evident through events like the Linyi Trade City International Sourcing Conference for Belt and Road Cooperation, which has seen remarkable growth over the years.

In 2023, the conference invited 365 international buyers from 63 countries and 22 international trade associations. The event saw agreements for 44 projects signed with an intended transaction value of 2.22 billion yuan ($311.83 million). This year, the third sourcing conference being held from Oct 10 to 12 is even more impressive, with over 2,000 buyers from 99 countries and regions and more than 2,200 exhibitors.

Linyi's appeal lies in its robust industrial foundation and efficient logistics system. The city is known as China's logistics capital, with over 3,000 logistics routes across the country and logistics costs 20 to 30 percent lower than the national average.

Linyi's strategic location and well-developed supply chain make it an ideal trading hub. The city's international trade reforms and globalization efforts have led to increased cooperation with countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

"As of now, we have scheduled our journey and made purchase requirements. We're busy visiting Linyi's market and engaging in development partnerships with local enterprises," said a Ghananian buyer during the third Linyi Trade City International Sourcing Conference for Belt and Road Cooperation.

The Third Linyi Trade City International Sourcing Conference for Belt and Road Cooperation is held in Linyi, East China's Shandong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]