HAIKOU, April 18 (Xinhua) -- At the Syria pavilion of the sixth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), Dong Jingyan, a representative of the exhibitors, held up a bar of naturally scented traditional Arab soap, and its alluring fragrance quickly drew a circling audience.
"This is our fifth time attending the expo," Dong said. "Our pavilion brings together products from 20 Syrian companies, showcasing some of the country's most representative offerings across categories."
The sixth CICPE concluded on Saturday in south China's Hainan Province, attracting more than 3,400 brands from over 60 countries and regions.
Exhibitors from Arab countries such as Syria and Oman showcased specialty cosmetics, handicrafts of intangible cultural heritage, and traditional foods, seeking new opportunities in China's growing consumer market.
Dong, who has been engaged in China-Arab trade for a decade, said she has long been committed to introducing Syrian products to Chinese consumers.
"In the past, many Syrian manufacturers saw China as too distant and too competitive, focusing instead on markets in the Middle East and Europe," she said.
After five consecutive years at the CICPE, however, Syrian products have gained growing traction in China. The number of participating companies has increased steadily, product offerings have expanded, and confidence among manufacturers has strengthened, Dong said.
From additive-free traditional soaps and rose tea to intricately crafted stone paintings and cardamom-infused coffee, Dong said the Syrian exhibits align well with the expo's positioning as a showcase for premium goods.
"Products characterized by natural ingredients, artisanal craftsmanship, and niche appeal have proven particularly popular among Chinese customers," she added.
Muhannad Shakally, a staff member at the Syria pavilion, noted that exhibitors have also made targeted adjustments to better suit the needs of Chinese consumers.
This includes refining skincare formulations and developing high-end, customized product lines. Several Chinese e-commerce platforms have also launched dedicated online sections for Syrian goods, Shakally said.
Riding such an online sales tide, the Syria pavilion has significantly expanded its sales channels.
"Several of our niche, high-end products have become bestsellers in China," Shakally said, adding that Syrian enterprises are also optimistic about the policies of the Hainan Free Trade Port, which are expected to significantly reduce the cost of entering the Chinese market.
"It will serve as a key gateway for us," he said.
The Oman pavilion, participating under a national banner for the first time at the CICPE, also gained steam during the expo.
Ada, the pavilion's head with 18 years of experience in the beauty industry, has been busy introducing the frankincense essential oil to the curious customers.
"This is green frankincense from Dhofar, Oman. It grows on cliffs and is produced in very limited quantities, making it a highly valued essential oil," she said.
As chemical-free skincare products have achieved high repurchase rates in China, she said many buyers have expressed interest in agency partnerships during the expo.
"The expo has helped Arab products truly connect with Chinese consumers," Ada said. "We are confident about developing in China's premium market. In the future, we plan to set up warehouses and retail stores here, and bring more Omani products to achieve long-term growth in China."
China is actively upgrading its consumer market to unlock further economic potential for itself and global partners. The country's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), released in March this year, called for promoting product upgrades and better meeting diversified consumer demand.
As China continues to deepen economic and trade cooperation with Arab countries, platforms such as the CICPE have provided important channels for Arab specialty products to enter the Chinese market.
Many Arab exhibitors expressed optimism about China's high-end consumer sector and reaffirmed their long-term presence in the market. ■
