Linyi city – a key manufacturing and commercial hub in East China's Shandong province – is strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia. That follows the recent inauguration of the Linyi Trade City (Thailand branch) and the successful hosting of a business matchmaking conference in Bangkok to advance China-Thailand economic cooperation.

During the event, Wang Yinghai, vice-mayor of Linyi, Narongsak Putthapornmongkol, chairman of the Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Li Chengqi, general manager of the Thailand Linyi Trade City, jointly unveiled the new trade center. 

The launch is said to mark a major milestone in Linyi's efforts to establish a long-term trade platform serving the Thai and broader ASEAN markets.

The conference attracted 33 top companies from Linyi, representing sectors such as hardware tools, labor protection equipment, wood panels, construction materials, crafts, toys and plastic products. 

Several cooperation agreements were signed between Thai partners and Linyi enterprises, laying the groundwork for future trade collaboration.

Linyi city's Wang highlighted Thailand's key role in the city's Southeast Asia strategy and encouraged businesses to use the trade mall as a gateway to better understand local market demands, improve product competitiveness and achieve mutual benefits.

The debut of the Thailand Linyi Trade City opens a new channel for Linyi's industries to connect with ASEAN and signals a major step in the city's efforts to deepen economic ties and build a more open economy under the Belt and Road Initiative. 

Wang also visited sites, including China Cultural Center in Bangkok and and leading companies such as CP Group.