Singapore officially begins its participation in the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) from 5-10 November, with 54 companies, including 19 first time participants, showcasing products and services across food and agricultural products, consumer goods and trade in services. Underscoring the strength of Singapore-China economic ties, 11 MoUs worth approximately SGD 15.1 million (CNY 78.6 million) were signed at the Singapore-China Trade and Investment Forum (SCTIF), which was held within the CIIE on 6 November.

This year’s SCTIF convened over 120 business leaders and government representatives from Singapore and China, including Singapore’s Ambassador to China, Mr Peter Tan; Chairman of Singapore Business Federation (SBF), Mr Mark Lee; and Deputy General Manager of Bank of China Singapore Branch, Mr Kelvin Tan. A panel discussion featuring representatives from Enterprise Singapore, Bank of China Singapore Branch, Pacific International Lines and BIPO. The discussion, themed “Unlocking Singapore-China Opportunities, Building a Shared Regional Future”, further explored how businesses can tap into Singapore’s strengths in finance, logistics, talent and professional services to expand into ASEAN. Discussions centred on how companies can strengthen cross-border partnerships and convert growing economic links between Singapore, China and ASEAN into tangible commercial outcomes. 

Speaking at the opening address of the SCTIF, Mr Mark Lee, Chairman, SBF, said: “China remains an important market for Singapore businesses. But looking ahead, Singapore-China cooperation can go beyond companies entering each other’s markets. By combining our respective strengths, businesses from both sides can work together to pursue opportunities across ASEAN and other international markets.

At this year’s SCTIF, we saw Singapore companies showcase new agreements with their partners. We look forward to seeing these partnerships take shape, and hope more companies will use CIIE to meet new partners, build trust and create new opportunities for collaboration.” 

A highlight of the forum was the presentation of 11 new MoUs, witnessed by Singapore’s Ambassador to China, Mr Peter Tan, Consul-General of Singapore in Shanghai, Mr Tan Chee King, and SBF Chairman Mr Mark Lee, reflecting the growing breadth of commercial partnerships between Singapore and Chinese businesses.

Repeat exhibitor Solu-ball signed an agreement with Chinese company Sanya Enderson Investment to collaborate on market and channel distribution of Solu-ball products in China. Their partnership was forged following Solu-ball’s participation in a Business Mission to Hainan organised by SBF. 

The partnerships signed also extend beyond China, with Kensetsu International and Fujian Steel Great Wall Environmental Protection Technology cooperating in areas such as technological development of exterior wall coating systems, material supply chains, project support and technical exchange. The two companies will also explore opportunities in Southeast Asia, with the aim of establishing a cross-border supply and sales channel.

Beyond the forum, the Singapore delegation showcases products and services across three CIIE exhibition areas: Food and Agricultural Products, Consumer Goods, and Trade in Services. From established brands to innovative businesses, the exhibits reflect the diversity of Singapore’s offerings and their response to China’s changing consumer priorities and business needs.

The SCTIF 2026 was organised by the SBF and supported by Enterprise Singapore, together with longstanding Financial Services Partner Bank of China Singapore Branch.