Changa Nkowani, chief executive officer of Gilly's Trends Enterprise, one of nine Zambian companies participating in this year's CIIE, speaks during an interview with Xinhua in Lusaka, Zambia, on Nov. 4, 2024. A Zambian company specializing in precious stone mining, honey production and handmade crafts aims to leverage the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) to tap into China's vast market. (Xinhua/Peng Lijun)

A Zambian company specializing in precious stone mining, honey production and handmade crafts aims to leverage the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) to tap into China's vast market.

Gilly's Trends Enterprise, one of nine Zambian companies participating in this year's CIIE, said that the expo is among the largest in the world, attracting extensive participation from diverse sectors. The company said the event is an invaluable opportunity to network with a wide array of enterprises.

Changa Nkowani, chief executive officer of the company who will attend the CIIE for the first time, told Xinhua on Monday that "the market in China is large, and that is why we always accept the invitation to attend."

Nkowani said that the company is keen to forge collaborations and explore partnership opportunities with those interested in its products, aiming to expand its reach in the Chinese market. Moreover, she said she is interested in partnering with Chinese companies to enhance value addition for her products.

Nkowani also praised China's zero-tariff treatment for all tariff lines from least-developed countries in Africa, describing it as a boost for exports from small and medium enterprises in these nations.

The 7th CIIE will take place in Shanghai from Nov. 5 to 10.