A delegation from the Catalan Association of Municipalities or the ACM, led by President Meritxell Budo, recently visited the Hongqiao Import Commodity Exhibition and Trade Center in Shanghai — also known as the Hongqiao 365.
The visit aimed to strengthen economic and cultural ties between Spain and China — focusing on how the China International Import Expo or CIIE promotes Spanish products and the burgeoning Chinese livestreaming economy.
During their visit, the delegation explored a bazaar featuring popular global products from the annual CIIE — where Spanish olive oil, wine and hair products captivated their attention.
Spanish wine goes on show at the Hongqiao 365, attracting the attention of the ACM delegation. [Photo/Hongqiao 365]
They engaged in detailed discussions about collaboration models and market prospects. The delegation expressed admiration for Hongqiao 365's role as a platform which facilitates the transformation of exhibits into marketable products and exhibitors into investors.
Meanwhile, at the Hongqiao International Coffee Harbor, the delegation experienced the rich aroma of hand-brewed coffee and learned about cutting-edge blockchain technology used for product traceability. The comprehensive industrial ecosystem received high praise indeed from the visitors.
The delegation also delved into the vibrant world of Chinese e-commerce by visiting the livestreaming base at Hongqiao 365.
Du Xiaona, executive secretary-general of the Shanghai Silk Road Selection Alliance, presented insights into China's e-commerce platforms and livestreaming trends.
The massive scale of China's e-commerce market left the guests in awe. They observed live broadcasts — witnessing firsthand the dynamic energy and enormous potential of China's livestreaming economy.
The visit underscored the growing interest in fostering trade and cultural exchanges between Catalonia and China, with a focus on leveraging innovative platforms and technologies to enhance bilateral cooperation.