SHANGHA — The exhibition space for the second China International Import Expo (CIIE) this year is expected to be larger than the inaugural one, Shanghai municipal government said on Jan 31.

With the exhibition space as large as about 40 football pitches, the first CIIE was held in Shanghai from Nov 5-10 in 2018, and concluded with deals worth about $57.83 billion.

As the world’s first import-themed national-level expo, the first CIIE attracted 3,617 foreign exhibitors, and more than 400,000 buyers from home and abroad.

“Shanghai is cordially hoping to see more global companies bring their great products to the second CIIE,” said Shanghai Mayor Ying Yong, adding that the preparatory work for the second CIIE had started.

According to the CIIE bureau, more than 500 companies from more than 40 countries and regions have confirmed participation in the 2019 CIIE. Among them, there are over 70 Fortune Global 500 firms and leading enterprises in various industries.