Storyline: UAE firms target deeper foray into Chinese market at 8th CIIE [Voice_over] China International Import Expo, or CIIE, is one of China’s biggest annual trade events and a major symbol of the country’s commitment to opening up its economy to the world. This year the United Arab Emirates has been named a guest country of honour. [Stand_up] Nadia Swan, Reporter: "The UAE has been a consistent presence at the CIIE for several years now –showcasing everything from logistics, aviation, financial services and camel milk products." [Sound_bite] Mark Wylie, CEO, Camelicious: "We have 7000 camels, and obviously that produces a lot of milk. And our biggest market is China. So it's very important for us to get our message out to the Chinese distributors, the Chinese people, and share the camel milk. The Chinese people have a tradition of drinking camel milk, and we've tapped into that, and they realize that the camel milk from the original source here in the United Arab Emirates is really important. Last year we managed to sign up with a new distributor, which was very important for us. This year we're hoping to get even more connections and more relationships to build the business in all the different channels to China." [Voice_over] The UAE’s role as a global logistics and innovation hub aligns closely with China’s Belt and Road Initiative. As an increasing number of Chinese companies are basing their regional offices in the UAE, Dubai Chambers is working to make that a smooth transition. [Sound_bite] Mohammed Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO, Dubai Chambers: "We have three offices in China – in Shenzhen, Shanghai and Hong Kong who covers a group of provinces around these cities to help them to expand. When it comes to digital it is further than just the physical boundaries, it’s about how we can create innovation corridors between Dubai- China, between Dubai and the world and the growing tech hubs globally that will help our companies to tap into investment opportunities." [Voice_over] China is the UAE’s largest trading partner, with total bilateral trade exceeding US$100 billion in 2024. Being a guest country of honour at the CIIE is a strategic opportunity for the UAE to invest further in China’s economy and build partnerships in sectors driving both nations’ growth, from clean energy to smart technology. This guest-country-of-honour role isn’t just ceremonial – it’s a chance for both nations to deepen cooperation, open new markets, and strengthen a partnership built on innovation. connectivity and shared prosperity. [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]