Strengthening Regional Ties: Preparations Underway for the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) 2026
The economic architecture of Southeast Asia is gearing up for one of its most significant trade milestones. High-level diplomatic engagements have recently intensified as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) Secretariat coordinate the framework for the 23rd edition of the expo, scheduled for September 2026.
These preparations signal a renewed commitment to deepening trade, investment, and connectivity between China and the ten ASEAN member states. By focusing on practical business matching and regulatory transparency, the upcoming expo aims to translate diplomatic goodwill into tangible economic growth for regional exporters.
High-Level Diplomatic Coordination
In a strategic move to align organizational goals, H.E. Nararya Soeprapto, the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Corporate and Community Affairs, recently received Liang Yiguang, the Deputy Secretary-General of the CAEXPO Secretariat, at the ASEAN Secretariat.
The meeting focused on the foundational preparations for the 23rd CAEXPO, which will take place from September 17 to 21, 2026, in Nanning, China. Beyond the logistics of the event, the two leaders exchanged views on advancing four critical pillars of regional cooperation:
- Trade: Expanding the volume and variety of goods exchanged.
- Investment: Encouraging cross-border capital flows to stimulate industrial growth.
- Tourism: Revitalizing travel sectors to boost local economies.
- Connectivity: Improving the physical and digital infrastructure that links the region.
Indonesia’s Strategic Push for Export Growth
Indonesia is positioning itself as a key player in the 2026 expo. In a recent session at the Ministry of Trade in Jakarta, Fajarini Puntodewi, the Director General of National Export Development, met with a delegation from the CAEXPO Secretariat, including Liang Yiguang, Lu Ming (Deputy Director of Liaison Division), and Meng Xiaowen (Deputy Director of Information and Publicity Division).
During these discussions, the Indonesian government reaffirmed its commitment to participate in the expo at the Nanning International Convention & Exhibition Centre (NICEC). However, the focus has shifted toward maximizing the actual utility of the event for small and medium enterprises. Director General Puntodewi highlighted two primary objectives for the 2026 iteration:
- Enhanced Business Matching: A call for more frequent and structured one-on-one business matching sessions between Indonesian pavilion participants and potential buyers.
- Regulatory Clarity: A request for the CAEXPO Secretariat to better disseminate the updated procedures and requirements of the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) to help Indonesian exporters navigate customs more efficiently.
According to the Indonesian Ministry of Trade, PT Pandu Arjuna Indonesia (PAR) will serve as the official event organizer (PEO) for the Indonesian Pavilion.
Understanding CAEXPO: A Platform for Regional Integration
CAEXPO is not merely a trade fair; it is a strategic instrument of diplomacy. The expo was established as part of the implementation of agreements reached during the 7th China-ASEAN Summit. It serves as an annual business forum and exhibition involving China and the ten member states of ASEAN.
By providing a centralized venue for trade and investment, CAEXPO has evolved into a strategic platform that strengthens partnerships and fosters economic interdependence across the region.
Key Takeaways for Stakeholders
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event Date | September 17–21, 2026 |
| Location | Nanning International Convention & Exhibition Centre (NICEC), Guangxi, China |
| Core Objectives | Trade, investment, tourism, and regional connectivity |
| Key Participants | 10 ASEAN nations and the People’s Republic of China |
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 expo approaches, the emphasis is clearly shifting from high-level diplomacy to operational efficiency. The insistence by member states like Indonesia on clearer customs procedures (GACC) and direct buyer matching suggests that the goal for the 23rd CAEXPO is to reduce trade barriers and create a more seamless corridor for goods and services. For businesses operating within the ASEAN-China corridor, the coming months will be critical for aligning their export strategies with these evolving regional standards.
