With the support and coordination of the Embassy of El Salvador in China, twelve Salvadoran companies participated in the 7th Edition of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) from November 5 to 10 in Shanghai. These companies showcased a diverse range of products, including beverages, juices, noni concentrate, cigars, coffee, snacks, and services, aiming to enter the expanding Chinese market.

Highlighted participants included well-known Salvadoran brands such as Ron Guazapa, Luna Spirits, Destilería La Central, Café La Casona, Montecarlo, ES Tabaco, PAMEM, Livsmart, Salaverría Brewing Company, Grupo Sano, Instituto Salvadoreño del Café, and Salaverría Trading Co. Organized by China’s Ministry of Commerce, the expo provided strategic opportunities for these companies to explore potential business deals and understand market dynamics and consumer preferences in China.

Salvadoran scholarship students in Shanghai volunteered their time to assist the business representatives, while local Chinese citizens, motivated by their affinity for El Salvador and its products, helped bridge language barriers and facilitated product promotion.

Among the many activities, the Instituto Salvadoreño del Café (ISC) held a “Coffee Cupping” event, in collaboration with the Embassy of El Salvador and Chinese businesswoman Taohui Tong, whose company Boquerón Coffee distributes Salvadoran coffee across major Chinese cities.

“We’re proud of the Salvadoran entrepreneurs who traveled to gain insight into this important market,” said Luis López, Salvadoran Ambassador to China. He also highlighted the recent success of the second phase of Free Trade Agreement negotiations between El Salvador and China, which took place in El Salvador and included Chinese government representatives.

The expo attracted influencers, key players in China’s e-commerce sector, as well as café owners and distributors, who play a vital role in promoting Salvadoran products in the Chinese market.