CIIE Stories丨Swedish Innovation Meets Chinese Opportunity

Blending Nordic minimalism with IKEA's modern design philosophy, an exhibition space that harmonizes aesthetics and functionality made debut at the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE).

2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Sweden and China. As one of the first Western nations to establish diplomatic ties with the People's Republic of China, Sweden returns to the CIIE Country Exhibition after a six-year hiatus and will serve as the guest country of honor for the first time.

The Swedish Trade & Invest Council, which organizes the Swedish pavilion, will bring together several leading companies to showcase the latest advancements in green technology, digitalization, and advanced manufacturing.

According to PER PORTÉN, Trade and Invest Commissioner to China at the Swedish Trade & Invest Council, the CIIE is a global gathering that fosters bilateral exchanges between China and other countries and encourages international interaction.

"It's undoubtedly a premier platform for promoting trade," Mr. PORTÉN said.

A UNIQUE PLATFORM

At the 8th CIIE, the Swedish pavilion will feature the theme "Creating Possibilities Together", offering visitors an immersive experience where technology and life converge. The pavilion will include interactive green technology zones, a Swedish culinary culture display, and a coffee lounge where visitors can enjoy traditional Nordic pastries and experience the Swedish philosophy of "Lagom" (just the right amount).

Mr. PORTÉN believes this exhibition design showcases Swedish companies as creative, collaborative, and reliable partners.

"The CIIE effectively promotes trade and cooperation, aligning with Sweden's national strategy of achieving economic growth through international collaboration," he said. Appearing as the guest of honor at the 8th CIIE signifies a deepening of relations between Sweden and China.

This perspective resonates with Swedish companies.

Elekta, a global leader in radiation therapy, is a regular participant at the CIIE. Anming Gong, Executive Vice President of Elekta and President of Elekta Region China, recalled their first participation as a "fortunate coincidence", registering just before the deadline for the first CIIE. Once there, Gong was genuinely impressed: "it's a unique national-level platform."

At the first CIIE, Elekta showcased the world's first high-field magnetic resonance-guided radiation therapy system, Elekta Unity, making its China debut. The system quickly moved from clinical trials to regulatory approval and has since treated over 40 types of cancer, benefiting thousands of patients. Following their initial participation, Elekta established a regional headquarters in Shanghai, transitioning from an "exhibitor" to an "investor".

Gong said, "through the CIIE, Elekta's latest products, technologies, and solutions can enter the Chinese market more quickly, allowing more patients and industry experts to learn about them."

Many other renowned Swedish companies share similar experiences. Ericsson, Hexagon, Alfa Laval, SKF, mining machinery giant Epiroc, and Scania, known as the "King of the Road", will also participate in the 8th CIIE. These companies will showcase Sweden's industrial strengths and economic vitality, further expanding and deepening their presence in the Chinese market.

NORDIC CHARM MEETS EASTERN OPPORTUNITY

IKEA, originating from Sweden, a country often referred to as the "Nordic Snow Country", is renowned for its home products that blend simplicity with a cozy, homely feel. At the 8th CIIE, IKEA will not only participate as a consistent attendee but also provide furniture for the Swedish National Pavilion. By using vibrant color schemes, the warm texture of ash wood, and the organic integration of natural materials like rattan, birch, and bamboo, IKEA brings the simplicity and warmth of Nordic design into every detail, creating an immersive Swedish atmosphere for visitors.

The 8th CIIE marks the fourth "Eastern journey" for Pontus Erntell, CEO, President & Chief Sustainability Officer of IKEA China. He fondly remembered attending the CIIE on his second day in China, giving the event special significance for him.

Erntell said, "during the 2024 CIIE, the IKEA booth welcomed over 45,000 visitors. I thoroughly enjoy these opportunities for interaction, much like I enjoy conversing with customers in our stores to understand their needs and dreams. The CIIE plays an important role in IKEA's innovation, serving as both a stage for new product launches and a venue for engaging with people."

In line with its long-term commitment to sustainability, IKEA plans to reintegrate these furniture pieces back into its value chain after the CIIE, giving products a new lifecycle through initiatives like circular markets.

IKEA's demonstration of its sustainability philosophy at the CIIE aligns perfectly with Mr. PORTÉN's expectations: the CIIE is more than just a trade platform; it is a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange and deepening mutual understanding.

FROM "EXHIBITOR" TO "PARTNER"

Alfa Laval joined the CIIE family in 2021. After five consecutive appearances, Alfa Laval has transformed its identity from a "Nordic technology exhibitor" to a "partner in low-carbon, sustainable, green solutions."

This transformation has yielded tangible results. In 2023, Alfa Laval held a global product launch at the CIIE for the first time, quickly securing orders from major Chinese chemical companies, achieving its strategic layout of "in China, for the world".

Christian Thomsen, Cluster President of Alfa Laval North East Asia, said, "I believe the CIIE is the core platform for showcasing innovation and sustainability. It is also a crucial bridge for fostering diverse dialogues. It connects companies, industry decision-makers, and governments, promoting valuable partnerships and dialogues, tightly linking the upstream and downstream to explore more collaboration opportunities and accelerate the implementation and promotion of innovative technologies."

When "Swedish Innovation" meets "Chinese Opportunity" on the CIIE stage, it sparks dual advancements in localized innovation and global expansion, propelling Sino-Swedish economic and trade relations into a new stage of deep integration. This path of cooperation paved by the CIIE is bound to lead to a broader future.