A group of delegates from the China International Fair for Investment and Trade paid a visit to Okinawa, Japan, on May 17, where the director of the prefecture’s commerce, industry and labor dept, a Mr. Yabiku, received them by expressing his hopes for stronger trade and economic ties, something that can be done at the CIFIT, in Xiamen, Fujian province in September.
He said that Okinawa’s governor will most likely be able to take a business delegation to this year’s fair, while the CIFIT delegates assured him of an invitation in the Fujian governor’s name. The delegates also suggested that Okinawan cities apply for the Star City title at next year’s fair to mark the 20th anniversary of Okinawa – Fujian cooperation, and for an Okinawa pavilion at that fair as a way to present their business environment along with matchmaking events.
The delegation also visited the Okinawa Industry Promotion Public Corporation, which has appeared at the fair four years in a row since 2012. The company worked with the Chinese delegates on their presentation about this year’s fair and got some advice for Okinawan businesses on how they could better participate in the fair.
Taking part in the CIFIT presentation were representatives of the city of Ginowan, Okinawa, a sister city of Xiamen, and 11 local companies. The presentation included a bit on Air China’s latest development from the airline’s representative in Okinawa. Air China is CIFIT’s sole airline partner.
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
