5th RCEP Expo pairs trade with tourism to drive consumption across sectors

The 5th RCEP Regional (Shandong) Import Expo, which runs from April 20 to 22 in Linyi, is placing an equally strong emphasis on cultural tourism as on trade, with organizers unveiling an array of tourism initiatives designed to channel the expected influx of visitors into retail, dining and leisure spending.

Dubbed the "Imported Goods Hi‑Buy Festival", the expo will feature four major consumption scenarios, according to the organizing committee. These include a time‑honored food zone showcasing intangible cultural heritage specialties, an immersive cultural tourism area with curated travel itineraries, an e‑commerce segment hosting live‑stream product selection sessions, and programs bringing foreign merchants into local markets and scenic spots.

To extend the commercial impact beyond the exhibition halls, organizers have arranged half‑day city tours of Linyi, a "Linyi by Night" evening itinerary and a gourmet trail called "Flavor of Langya." These will be paired with exclusive expo‑related discounts at 35 scenic spots, including the historic Langya Ancient City.

The integration of exhibitions, commerce and tourism — what organizers call the "three‑in‑one synergy" — aims to stimulate consumption across the board. By blending trade and tourism, the expo hopes to generate spillover benefits for Linyi's hospitality, catering and retail sectors.

With a total exhibition area of 35,000 square meters and more than 1,200 booths, the expo has attracted 400 exhibiting companies, including Fortune Global 500 names such as Yamaha, Metro and Tesla. The national pavilion area will feature 19 country pavilions — the largest number in the event's history — along with five pavilions for international friendship cities.

Preparations for the expo are progressing smoothly, with the organizing committee emphasizing that all remaining tasks will be executed with high standards and cost efficiency to ensure a successful event.

编辑：Lotus