Visitors gather outside the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), venue of the China International Import Expo. [Photo/IC]

Enterprises from Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, secured contracts worth $2.2 billion on the first day of the 8th China International Import Expo, which is held in Shanghai from Nov 5 to 10.

Seventy overseas companies and 300 Chinese firms discussed digital economy cooperation, high-tech research, talent exchange, equity investment, and trade during the Parallel Session on AI-Driven Digital Economy Innovation & The Global Digital Economy and High-Tech Industry Matchmaking Conference of the 8th Hongqiao International Economic Forum, on Nov 5. Among the signatories were three Zhoushan enterprises — Zhejiang Petroleum & Chemical, Zhejiang Zhoushan International Agri-products Trade Center, and Zhoushan Good Ocean Grain & Oils. 

Zhoushan Good Ocean Grain & Oils, a regular participant at the expo, renewed its partnership with United States-based ADM, the world's largest grain trader. The two sides signed a soybean import framework agreement worth $300 million, covering purchases from Argentina, Brazil, the US, and Uruguay between 2025 and 2028. According to the company, ADM's strong shipping and logistics capabilities ensure stable supplies, helping enhance operational efficiency and management.

Over the past seven editions of the expo, Zhoushan has organized more than 1,500 business delegations, achieving intended purchases exceeding $4.5 billion. The city has also hosted seven themed promotional events for key industries, such as agricultural products, further strengthening its role in international trade cooperation.