On October 9, the China-Spain Trade and Investment Matchmaking Event took place in Madrid. Ling Ji, Vice Minister of Commerce of China and Deputy China International Trade Representative, and Maria Amparo López Senovilla, Secretary of State for Trade at Spain’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business, attended and delivered remarks. Yao Jing, Chinese Ambassador to Spain, was also present. Over 300 representatives from Chinese and Spanish enterprises and business associations gathered for the event, engaging in vibrant exchanges and active matchmaking sessions.

Ling Ji stated that the co-hosting of this matchmaking event by MOFCOM and Spain’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business constitutes a concrete step to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries. In a time when protectionism and unilateralism are intensifying and the international economic and trade order is under strain, organizing such a large-scale trade and investment dialogue is no easy feat. This not only highlights the vitality and potential of China-Spain economic and trade cooperation but also strongly demonstrates the two countries’ firm resolve and confidence in supporting free trade.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Spain comprehensive strategic partnership. Over the past two decades, the two sides have continuously expanded cooperation areas, innovated collaboration models, and tapped cooperation potential, building a dynamic and resilient industrial and supply chain partnership. China will increase its procurement of Spanish agricultural and food products, promote innovation in trade models, expand imports from Spain through cross-border e-commerce, and enhance two-way investment.

López noted that trade and investment cooperation between Spain and China has flourished in recent years, reflecting Spanish enterprises’ confidence in China’s economic prospects. Spain is committed to deepening trade and investment collaboration with China in renewable energy and the digital economy. It firmly supports free trade and the establishment of a transparent, fair international trade order. With a sound business environment and a stable economy, Spain warmly welcomes Chinese companies to invest and operate in the country.

Enterprises from both sides held sector-specific matchmaking sessions on agricultural and food products, green economy, advanced manufacturing, and trade in services. Nine trade and investment cooperation agreements were signed during the event.