The 22nd China–ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO 2025) wrapped up in Nanning on September 21, setting new records in trade and investment. Over 3,200 companies from 60 countries participated, with more than 500 projects signed and 700 achievements announced. For global businesses, CAEXPO has become a vital platform to explore China–ASEAN trade opportunities and unlock new growth.
Unlocking Regional Market Potential
Exhibitors from Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and other ASEAN countries brought a wide variety of products—from premium coffee and ancient tea to tropical food and handicrafts—demonstrating the diversity of the regional market. Trung Nguyen Legend, Vietnam’s iconic coffee brand, highlighted how CAEXPO in Nanning has boosted both sales and brand visibility in China. Since the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) took effect in 2022, tariff reductions, faster customs clearance, and tax incentives have allowed the company to expand rapidly, opening more than 20 coffee shops across Chinese cities.
Lao Jin Champa Tea also reported record-breaking sales, with both bulk buyers and individual visitors purchasing in significant quantities. First-time participants such as Minh Ha Foods immediately confirmed they will return in 2026 after experiencing the efficiency of the matchmaking platform. The numbers underscore the success: over 11,000 companies and more than 30,000 buyers attended CAEXPO 2025, proving its value as a gateway for China–ASEAN business expansion and a driver of long-term partnerships.
Innovation at the Forefront: AI Pavilion
For the first time, CAEXPO 2025 featured a dedicated artificial intelligence pavilion, signaling the expo’s role not only in traditional trade but also in technology-driven collaboration. Cutting-edge innovations were on display: real-time translation smart glasses breaking down language barriers, gesture-controlled musical instruments, and humanoid robots capable of performing complex tasks like dancing, cooking, or playing the drums.
Chinese robotics firm Zhifang attracted significant attention with its general-purpose robot “Aibao,” which signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Vietnam’s largest private group Geleximco and initiated pilot projects in Singapore. Meanwhile, Thailand’s Mandala AI partnered with AsiaInfo to showcase AI-powered healthcare and fintech solutions, highlighting the potential for cross-border digital transformation. Deals worth more than RMB 1.4 billion were signed in the AI pavilion alone, reinforcing CAEXPO’s position as a bridge for China–ASEAN innovation and technology investment.
Trade and investment flows between China and ASEAN remain strong. China has been ASEAN’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years, while ASEAN has consistently been China’s top partner for the past five. From January to July 2025, bilateral trade volume reached USD 597 billion, up 8.2% year-on-year—a clear indicator of economic resilience and regional demand.
Business leaders at CAEXPO Nanning 2025 expressed strong confidence in the future. Thai company CTV International Trade emphasized that RCEP tariff reductions and streamlined customs procedures have significantly lowered costs while opening doors to new markets. Cambodian manufacturers, represented by the national chamber of investors, used CAEXPO to connect with Chinese distributors, explore joint ventures, and plan regional expansion across Southeast Asia. Their enthusiasm reflects a broader trend: CAEXPO has become more than a trade fair—it is a catalyst for shared growth, deeper supply chain integration, and long-term cooperation across China and ASEAN.
Conclusion
CAEXPO 2025 in Nanning has proven to be more than just an exhibition. It is a platform driving China–ASEAN trade, investment, and innovation, while creating opportunities for global companies looking to expand across Asia. By connecting markets, fostering cross-border cooperation, and enabling new technologies, CAEXPO continues to pave the way for long-term, sustainable growth.
