Somali Ambassador to China Hodan Osman Abdi (second from right) at the Somalian Pavilion at CIIE on 5 November 

Somalia is showcasing its specialty products and exploring new avenues for bilateral trade at the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE), which opened on 5 November at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. 

On the first day of the expo, the Somali pavilion attracted considerable attention from Chinese visitors, with many expressing interest in the products on display and a willingness to explore potential business cooperation. 

Among the exhibits were frankincense, myrrh and their derivatives, including cosmetics, as well as sesame. These traditional specialties reflect Somalia's natural resources and offer opportunities to raise sales in the Chinese market. 

Seafood, however, is among the country's most promising export products, according to Somali Ambassador to China Hodan Osman Abdi. With a coastline stretching more than 3,300 km, Somalia has considerable marine resources and a well-established fishing tradition, giving its seafood industry significant development potential. 

In July this year, China and Somalia signed a bilateral protocol on inspection and quarantine requirements for wild aquatic products exported to China, marking an important step towards expanding bilateral trade in seafood. Together with China’s zero-tariff treatment, this is expected to create new opportunities for Somali fisheries businesses to bring more of the country's marine products to Chinese consumers. 

For Somalia, participating in the CIIE goes beyond displaying products. It also offers an important platform for communication, helping Chinese businesses and consumers gain a better understanding of the country. 

"The CIIE provides an opportunity for people to rediscover Somalia and see the country as it is today," the ambassador said. She described the expo as a window through which Somalia can present its progress, development potential and the opportunities it offers to the international community. 

The ambassador also highlighted the significance of China's zero-tariff policy for African countries, saying it sends a positive signal to Somali businesses and encourages more traders to explore the Chinese market. Beyond reducing trade barriers, the policy can encourage Somali exporters to better understand Chinese consumer preferences, identify market demand and develop products suited to local tastes. 

She expressed hope that more Chinese businesses would establish connections with Somali suppliers and that Chinese livestreaming hosts could help introduce Somali specialties to a wider audience through e-commerce platforms. 

As this marks Somalia's first appearance at the CIIE, the ambassador also expressed hope that the country would return in the years ahead with a larger exhibition area and a broader range of products.