Iran pavilion at CIIE showcases products and culture

The Islamic Republic of Iran pavilion at ninth China International Imports Expo in Shanghai, East China. (People's Daily Online/Andrew Smith)

This year's China International Imports Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai featured a fascinating Country Pavilion where over 60 countries showcased products and services for the China market.

One of the most intriguing and dynamic exhibitions, however, was the pavilion of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Built to resemble the ancient Persian Empire's Gate of All Nations in the ruins of Persepolis, the majestic exhibition showcased a number of Iranian products, from groundbreaking pharmaceuticals to traditional Persian rugs. 15 Iranian companies collaborated with the Consulate of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Shanghai to host the pavilion and facilitate new deals with Chinese buyers and Iranian suppliers.

The Islamic Republic of Iran pavilion at the Country Pavilion at the ninth China International Imports Expo in Shanghai, East China. (People's Daily Online/Andrew Smith)

Khalil Esterhamlari, the head operator of the Islamic Republic of Iran exhibition in the Country Pavilion, said the Chinese market for Iranian products has grown exponentially. "All companies involved- from handcrafts to agricultural products- are happy, and many Chinese companies are eagerly approaching us to do business with Iranian companies," he said of this year's CIIE. Chinese companies like Xiaomi, Huawei and BYD are enormously popular in Iran, he said, and Iranian suppliers of products such as saffron, pistachios, carpets, dried fruits and minerals are currently in high demand.

Persian rugs on display at the Islamic Republic of Iran pavilion at the ninth China International Imports Expo in Shanghai, East China. (People's Daily Online/Andrew Smith)

Danial Shahmirzaei, a representative of the Cultural Department of the Iranian consulate in Shanghai, said that "E-commerce and distribution companies interested in authentic imported goods for the Chinese market have been especially notable at this year's CIIE. Also, a number of general visitors who are curious about Iranian culture, handicrafts, and traditional products—many of them are attracted by the cultural and artisanal side of the pavilion. So overall, we see strong interest from both the business community and the general public."

When asked about overall Iran's participation at CIIE, he said it has been very positive and constructive. "As a national pavilion, we see CIIE as a major platform to showcase Iran's export capabilities—especially in sectors like agricultural products, dried fruits, saffron, handicrafts, and petrochemicals. The feedback from Chinese buyers and visitors has been encouraging, and we feel CIIE plays a key role in deepening Iran-China trade ties under the framework of our comprehensive strategic partnership. Overall, our feeling is that Iran's presence here is well-received and increasingly recognized as a reliable partner for high-quality, authentic products."