The launch ceremony for the 2026 China (Shandong)–ASEAN Exchange Series began in Weifang, Shandong, promoting future cooperation between Shandong and ASEAN countries. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 2026 China (Shandong)–ASEAN Exchange Series began in Weifang, East China's Shandong province, on March 26, with the theme "shared success and connected future".

Shandong, known for its economic power, industrial strength, and rich cultural heritage, has maintained a strong partnership with ASEAN. For seven consecutive years, ASEAN has been Shandong's largest trading partner, with imports and exports reaching 663.15 billion yuan ($96.05 billion) in 2025.

The launch ceremony gathered ASEAN countries' envoys, business leaders, and researchers from both regions. It underscored Shandong's commitment to promoting friendly and mutually beneficial agricultural cooperation with ASEAN countries, providing a platform for experience sharing and new partnerships.

Vei Samnang, governor of Cambodia's Takeo province, valued the event for strengthening cooperation between both regions, while Thailand's consul general in Qingdao noted the alignment of agricultural policies and broad prospects for cooperation. During the event, several major cooperation agreements were signed, boosting the integration of agriculture and supply chains.

Following the launch ceremony, the Agricultural Industrial Supply Chain Cooperation Matchmaking was held, aiming to build an exchange and cooperation platform for Shandong and ASEAN countries in agriculture and supply chain sectors. Guests visited places like Gaomi and Shouguang counties to see Weifang's modern agricultural development.