September 23 2024

Ultimate Guide to Success at CIIE Shanghai: Importance of Professional Interpreting

Flora Bonjean Business in China, Interpreting

To get the most out of your involvement in the China International Import Expo (CIIE) Shanghai, it is crucial to be well prepared, understand business practices in China, and ensure that your interpreting needs are covered.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with practical advice on professional interpreting, cultural etiquette, and networking strategies to maximize your opportunities at this major event.

FAQ

What are the main benefits of participating in the CIIE?

Participating in the CIIE offers several benefits, such as access to the Chinese market, the opportunity to meet new partners, discover the latest market trends, and expand your professional network.

How can I choose a professional interpreter for the CIIE?

When choosing a professional interpreter for the CIIE, it is essential to find someone who has solid qualifications, experience in your industry, a perfect command of Chinese and your language, and a good understanding of cultural differences.

What are the typical costs for interpreting services at the CIIE?

The costs of interpreting services at the CIIE depend on the type of service chosen and how long you need the interpreter(s) for. Contact us today and get a free quote.

How can I prepare my company for a successful CIIE?

To prepare your company for a successful CIIE, you should create Chinese materials, schedule B2B meetings in advance, have a good understanding of Chinese business culture, and hire a competent interpreter.

What are the best ways to network during CIIE?

Everything about CIIE, Business and Interpreting!

General Information about CIIE Shanghai

What is the China International Import Expo (CIIE)?

China is the world’s second largest importer and largest consumer, and the CIIE is the world’s largest import exhibition.

The China International Import Expo (China International Import Expo CIIE) is one of the world’s largest trade events, held annually in Shanghai. Launched in 2018 by the Chinese government, the CIIE aims to promote international trade and facilitate access to the Chinese market for foreign companies.

This event is a unique opportunity for companies from around the world to showcase their products, services, and technologies to Chinese and international buyers. With thousands of exhibitors (3,400 in 2023) and hundreds of thousands of visitors every year (410,000 in 2023), the CIIE is a must for any company looking to expand in China.

=> Participating in the CIIE not only provides an opportunity to meet potential partners, but also to witness market trends and explore new growth opportunities.

CIIE Shanghai 2024 – When and where is it?

The CIIE 2024 will be held in Shanghai, at theNational Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC), one of the largest exhibition centers in the world. This year the event will take place from November 5-10, 2024, offering attendees five days of exhibitions, forums, B2B meetings, and other networking activities.

NECC is strategically located near Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, making it easily accessible for both domestic and international visitors.

Which sectors are represented at the CIIE?

With its slogan “New Era, Shared Future”, the CIIE covers a wide range of sectors, attracting companies from various industries looking to access the Chinese market.

The Exhibition is divided into six zones:

Smart industry and information technology: High-tech solutions, artificial intelligence, IoT, Machines, spare parts, industrial robots, and construction equipment.
Consumer goods: Food products, clothing, consumer goods, household appliances, and luxury items.
Services: Financial services, logistics, tourism, education, and professional services such as interpreting and translation.
Medical equipment and health products : Pharmaceuticals, medical devices, health services and medical innovations.
Automobile : Light and heavy vehicles, spare parts, mobility technologies and intelligent transport solutions.
Food and Agricultural Products : Agricultural products, food and beverages, organic products, and agri-food innovations.

Each area is further subdivided into sections and specialized areas.

“A special innovation incubation zone is set up for companies in the seed, start-up and growth phases.” – CIIE.org

This provides great opportunities for international companies to connect with Chinese buyers, distributors, and business partners more easily.

List of CIIE exhibitors and conferences.

The CIIE attracts thousands of exhibitors from around the world, ranging from large multinationals to small and medium-sized enterprises.

Notable exhibitors include leaders in the technology, healthcare, food, fashion, and financial services sectors. In 2023, 289 companies among the FORTUNE 500 were present!

For the full list of exhibitors, you can find them on the event floor plan here. consult the CIIE official website

Each year, the event also offers a program of conferences and forums that address critical topics such as technological innovation, trade policies, sustainable development, and new trends in the Chinese market. CIIE conferences provide attendees with a valuable opportunity to hear from industry experts and government officials as they share their perspectives and analysis.

To find out the schedule of conferences for the CIIE 2024, you will have to be patient because it has not yet been released.

How to prepare for the CIIE Shanghai: Practical Guide for Exhibitors and Participants

Here is the schedule for exhibitors wishing to set up a stand: stands will be set up from October 27 to November 2 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and taken down on November 11 and 12 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The organizations implementing this 7th edition of the CIIE have drawn up a Practical manual for exhibitors, that you can find here.

If it is your first time participating in a Trade Show in China, we recommend you read: Trade Shows in China 2024 – How to Prepare Your Business

Succeeding in Business in China: Culture, Negotiations, and Etiquette at CIIE Shanghai

China is one of the most dynamic markets in the world, but doing business there requires a good understanding of cultural differences. To succeed at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, it is important to understand these nuances, know how to negotiate skillfully and adopt the right behaviors to avoid misunderstandings.

Entering the Chinese market: 10 Things Brands Must Do – HI-COM

Understanding Cultural Differences in Business in China

Business culture in China is strongly influenced by values such as hierarchy, respect, and harmony. At the CIIE, these values are translated in several ways:

Respect for hierarchy:

Hierarchy is very important in China. Decisions are often made by leaders after much discussion. In business meetings, it is crucial to recognize titles and show respect to those in high positions.

The importance of the “face” (“Mianzi”):

Protecting “face” is essential in China. This means avoiding embarrassing someone or criticizing them publicly. At the CIIE, it is important to express yourself in a way that avoids making others lose face, as this could damage the relationship.

Guanxi (connections):

The term “Guanxi” refers to the importance of personal relationships and networking in business. At the CIIE, having good “guanxi” can be crucial to securing partnerships. This requires taking the time to get to know your contacts, building a relationship of trust, and showing a genuine interest in their culture and their company.

Tips for Negotiations with Chinese Partners at the CIIE – Interpreting

Negotiations in China can be very different from those in the West. Here are some tips for successful discussions at the CIIE:

Preparation and patience: Negotiations in China are often long and detailed. It is more or less essential to negotiate! It is important to be well-prepared with clear information and solid arguments. Patience is essential, as decisions can take time.
Indirect communication: Unlike the direct negotiation styles often used in the West, the Chinese prefer subtle and indirect communication. The answers can be nuanced, and you have to know how to read between the lines. A “yes” can sometimes mean “maybe,” and a silence can be a chance to clarify or suggest something else.
Using interpreters: If you are not fluent in Chinese, a good interpreter is essential. It is not just about translating the words, but also about understanding cultural subtleties, which can greatly influence successful negotiation at the CIIE.
Providing value and making compromises: Show that you are ready to seek win-win solutions. Chinese partners value compromises and agreements that bring long-term benefits to both sides. This approach can increase your chances of success at the CIIE.

The Eight Elements of Chinese-Style Negotiation

Etiquette and Behavior to Adopt during the CIIE

Etiquette is essential in Chinese business culture. Here are some rules to follow to make a good impression at the CIIE:

Business cards: Business cards are exchanged at the beginning of each meeting. Always have enough and present them with both hands, with the text facing the person. Take a few seconds to look at the card you received before putting it away. This shows respect.

Pro tip: Add your QR code WeChat on the business card.

Greetings and gestures: A handshake is common, but a slight nod is also appreciated to show respect. Avoid touching people or pointing fingers as this can be perceived as rude.
Punctuality: Being on time is a sign of respect in China. Arriving on time or a little early for your appointments at the CIIE is important for making a good impression.
Dress code: Wear professional, conservative clothing. Appearance matters a lot in China, as it reflects professionalism and seriousness.

How to Avoid Cultural Misunderstandings at CIIE?

Even with good preparation, cultural misunderstandings can occur. Here are some strategies to avoid them:

Take the time to listen carefully and write down the nonverbal reactions. Facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice can give clues about what your partners are thinking.

A good interpreter, who knows the language and culture well, can help you avoid communication errors. They can clarify misunderstandings and advise you on the best way to respond.

If anything is unclear, please feel free to ask questions. This shows that you are involved and want to understand expectations.

Showing that you are open and respectful of local practices is essential to avoid misunderstandings. Be prepared to adapt the way you communicate and learn from the exchanges.

By understanding cultural differences, mastering negotiations, and respecting CIIE etiquette, professionals can avoid cultural mistakes and build strong and fruitful relationships with their Chinese partners. The main and easiest strategy to get it right is to get help with professional Interpreting for the CIIE.

Interpreting and Translation Services at CIIE: Why and How to Choose the Best?

Why are professional interpreting services important for the CIIE?

The CIIE is a global event that brings together participants from different cultures and languages. Professional interpreting services are essential to ensure your messages are clear, precise, and respect cultural nuances.

1. Facilitating multilingual communication:

Most Chinese professionals prefer to speak in Mandarin, especially for important negotiations. A professional interpreter ensures that nothing is lost in translation, whether it’s technical terms, business propositions, or cultural nuances. This is crucial when negotiating contracts, presenting products, or talking to government officials and executives.

2. Improve networking opportunities:

The CIIE offers many networking opportunities where every conversation can open the door to new opportunities. Having an interpreter on site makes exchanges more fluid and allows you to focus on building strong relationships, without worrying about the language barrier.

3. Building trust and credibility:

By investing in professional interpreting services, you show your potential partners that you are committed to communicating clearly and conducting business in a transparent and respectful manner. This builds trust and gives credibility to your approach.

How do you choose a good interpreter for the CIIE?

Choosing the right interpreter for the CIIE is a strategic decision that can influence the success of your participation.

Here are the criteria to take into account to make the best choice:

– Competence and Experience in the Sector: Not all interpreters are equal. It is crucial to choose an interpreter who has expertise in your industry. For example, an interpreter with experience in the technology, healthcare, or finance sectors will be better able to understand and correctly translate the specific terminologies and nuances of those industries.

– Bilingualism and Cultural Competence: The interpreter must have perfect mastery of both the source and target languages. This is essential to avoid misunderstandings and to ensure that the tone and intentions of messages are correctly interpreted. Look for interpreters who have lived or worked in both cultures.

– Types of interpreting Services Offered: At the CIIE you may need: different types of interpreting,such as simultaneous, consecutive interpreting or liaison, depending on the context (conferences, B2B meetings, presentations). Make sure the interpreter you choose is competent in the type(s) of service required and has the necessary equipment if needed (headsets, microphones, booths, etc.).

– Professionalism and Flexibility: The CIIE is a dynamic event where meetings and discussions can sometimes extend or move to another location. It is essential to choose an interpreter who is not only professional and punctual, but also flexible to accommodate the changing needs of your schedule.

– Cost and Value: Although cost is an important factor, it is crucial to consider the value that the interpreter brings. Choosing a cheaper but less competent interpreter can be costly in terms of missed business opportunities or misunderstandings.

– Availability for Prior Preparations: It is often beneficial to work with an interpreter who can prepare with you in advance. Whether it is to familiarize yourself with the specific vocabulary of your sector, or to understand the objectives of your meetings, this preparation can greatly improve the efficiency of interactions at the CIIE.

By following these tips, you will be well equipped to choose an interpreter who not only facilitates communication at the CIIE, but also helps strengthen your presence and success in the Chinese market.

A good interpreting service is an investment that can generate significant returns in terms of business partnerships and long-term growth.

Costs and budgets for interpreting services at the CIIE.

The budget will depend on the number of interpreters you need, and the duration of the support. To get a general idea of the budget to plan, HI-COM can give you a free quote: Contact us !

How do you book an interpreter for the CIIE?

HICOM Expertise

With our expertise in interpreting, we ensure that our interpreters are:

Holders of degrees in simultaneous interpreting from world-renowned universities
With at least 5 years of experience in interpreting in your field
Able to adapt quickly
Presentable

OUR CUSTOMERS

Discover our clients and past interpreting projects among which you will find BYD, RIZE, the Summit on sustainable development and GSE, Sino-French GBA Summit, LEHERPEUR Paris Round Table, GMECS, Alix partners, BAFTA, Daxue Consulting, Australia-China Sports Summit.

As a multilingual expert, HI-COM respects all these rules and more: we offer professional services of translation, of interpreting and of writing in more than 40 language pairs. We are an international standards agency headquartered in Shanghai. We are specialized in the Chinese market, but we have customers all over the world.

At HI-COM, we use powerful CAT tools such as Trados, the industry standard. Our multinational team is highly qualified, efficient and at your service.

Networking Strategies and Partnership Opportunities at CIIE Shanghai

The CIIE offers unique opportunities to create business partnerships and expand your network. In order to maximize your presence at the CIIE, it is important to have effective networking strategies and understand the importance of business relationships in China.

China Communication: Targeting Chinese Companies

How to Get the Most Out of the CIIE

To succeed at the CIIE, a Good preparation is essential. Identify in advance the companies and potential partners you want to meet and schedule appointments. Attend B2B meetings, workshops, and conferences to connect with key decision-makers. Be prepared to present your business, products or services, and what you can bring to the Chinese market.

Having a clear pitch and presentation materials in Chinese can make all the difference.

Understanding Guanxi

As seen before, business in China is based on personal relationships, called “Guanxi”. Developing your guanxi means establish bonds of trust and reciprocity with your partners. At the CIIE, take the time to get to know people, show genuine interest in their culture and needs, and find common ground. A friendly and respectful approach can often lead to strong and lasting relationships.

Participate in B2B Meetings and Other Events

The CIIE offers numerous B2B meetings, round table sessions, and forums to facilitate exchanges between companies. These events are perfect for meeting potential partners, exchanging ideas, and discovering new opportunities. Register for these events in advance and prepare questions or discussion topics to get the most out of these meetings.

Adopting Effective Networking Strategies

For successful networking, be proactive. Don’t just hand out business cards; engage in meaningful conversations. Listen well, ask relevant questions, and identify the needs of others. A quality interpreter can be a great asset in these situations. Show how your business can meet these needs. Use platforms like WeChat to continue the conversation after the event, as it is the most widely used communication tool in China.

Keeping Contact for Strong, Meaningful Long-Term Connections

To ensure that your meetings at the CIIE turn into beneficial relationships, stay in touch with your prospects. After each interaction, send a personalized message via WeChat or email to thank them and remind them of the points discussed. Share updates about your business, interesting articles, or industry news. Regular follow-up and genuine interest in their challenges and goals will help build lasting and fruitful relationships.

To master WeChat before the show, find out how here: 30 Marketing Tools on WeChat

HI-COM is a translation and interpreting agency that provides China-specific support to businesses around the world. We provide services of translation technical, legal and certified, but also of interpreting simultaneous and consecutive. With over 10 years of experience and a large network of qualified interpreters, HICOM is your partner for China!

Contact us for a free quote today!