Guangzhou's Nansha district is showcasing its new import trade promotion and innovation demonstration zone at the ongoing China International Import Expo with the aim of attracting more investors and companies from different industries.

Located along the Pearl River, Nansha district was last year named a demonstration zone for import businesses.

At this year's CIIE, which wraps up on Nov 10, Nansha has introduced new plans to accelerate the development of its imports, especially in terms of foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals and artwork. New policies will also be launched to optimize the business environment and improve the efficiency and accessibility of public services.

"We have adopted innovative measures to speed up registration, Customs clearance and other administrative processes," Dong Ke, district government head, said during the CIIE on Nov 5.

Dong said companies have been encouraged to make declarations in advance so that they can receive export tax reimbursements within three working days.

In 2020, Nansha Port handled more than 17 million standard containers and added 131 new international shipping routes, Dong added. Today, Nansha Port is connected to more than 200 ports around the world.

Nansha has also announced that six new platforms have been officially launched at the import demonstration zone. These platforms include a comprehensive center for automobile trading and four distribution centers for cold chain logistics, global merchandising, foods and beverages, as well as food supplies specially marketed to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

"Problems and difficulties are unavoidable when a foreign brand enters the Chinese market for the first time," said Li Hui, vice-director of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao International Supply Chains Co Ltd, at the launch of the platforms during the CIIE on Nov 5.

"The new platform for global merchandising distribution will provide digital services and bring together outstanding providers and resources," Li said.

He added that the new platform will eventually integrate trade services and resources such as logistics, distribution and Customs clearance and provide digital solutions and administrative services for global corporations.

A new bonded warehouse for artwork was also highlighted at Nansha's CIIE showroom.

Yang Mei, president of the Greater Bay Area International Bonded Art Service Center, said the objective of the warehouse is to create a safe, advanced and professional service chain for trading in art.

"We hope to become a cultural industry leader that connects with Hong Kong and Macao, and achieve an annual import and export volume of 300 million yuan ($46.88 million)," Yang said.