Shanghai is ready for the 8th China International Import Expo. [Photo/VCG]
The Shanghai Public Security Bureau has launched a series of upgraded convenience measures for the 8th China International Import Expo, aimed at making the event smoother for foreign exhibitors and visitors.
1. Entry made easier for foreign visitors
Electronic port visas now available
For the first time, foreign guests attending the CIIE and invited by Shanghai-based organizations can apply for electronic port visas.
Visa support for guests invited by non-Shanghai firms
Foreign guests invited by companies outside Shanghai can also apply for port visas through Shanghai's facilitation process.
Group tourist visas for overseas visitors
For the first time, overseas visitor groups coming to the CIIE can apply for group tourist visas at the port of entry.
Fast-track visa for returning participants
Previous foreign exhibitors and professional visitors can benefit from simplified documentation, faster visa approvals, and multiple-entry visa options.
On-site stay permits services at NECC (Shanghai)
Foreign visitors can apply for stay or residence permits directly at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai).
Stay extensions for visa-free visitors
Visitors entering China under visa-free policies can apply for stay permits to continue their business activities after the permitted stay ends.
2. Direct police assistance for exhibitors
"Blue Whale" Enterprise Protection Station at the venue
This on-site station provides real-time support for businesses, including consultations, guidance on reporting business-related crimes, and assistance with dispute mediation.
Online help desk
A dedicated CIIE security section on the Shanghai police website allows foreign guests to submit questions and feedback and receive timely responses.
Direct access via CIIE portal
A new "Blue Whale" tab has been added to the CIIE portal, connecting foreign exhibitors directly with police support online.
3. Better on-site experience at NECC (Shanghai)
Five drop-and-go zones
Five areas (P0, P1, P6, P8, P15) are designated for quick drop-off by ride-hailing services. P0, P1, and P15 are open 24/7, while P6 and P8 are open in the mornings only.
More access points, less waiting
Gates 12 and 13 at Halls 4.1H and 8.1H have been added, bringing the total number of access points to 27 to help reduce queue times.
28 entry checkpoints across the venue
Entry verification points are now located at all four main entrances, hall corridors, and office buildings, streamlining the flow of attendees.
Direct venue access from hotel
A new electronic access lane has been added at the InterContinental Shanghai Hongqiao NECC, allowing hotel guests to enter the venue directly without leaving the building.
More internal shuttle carts
The number of electric shuttle carts has been increased to improve inter-hall mobility.
More parking for exhibitors
On-site parking at NECC (Shanghai) has expanded to 2,803 spaces, including 900 new spots near the north square.
4. Easier registration and badge use
Reuse previous CIIE badges
Foreign visitors from the 5th to 7th editions can reuse eligible entry badges by selecting the "reuse previous badge" option during registration. Once approved, the old badge can be used for venue access without reprinting.
Extended registration deadline
To accommodate last-minute personnel changes, the exhibitor registration deadline has been extended to Oct 31. Temporary green channels may also open based on exhibitor needs.
Source: Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Public Security
