On November 9, six Kazakhstani students from Zhejiang Industry & Trade Vocational College (ZJITC) —majoring in Software Technology and International Economics and Trade— visited the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, accompanied by a faculty advisor from the School of International Education. Under the theme “Perceive the Chinese Charm, Embark on the Silk Road Youth Journey”, the students immersed themselves in this grand global event showcasing international trade and technology. They toured major sections of the Expo, including the Country Exhibition, the Intelligent Industry & Information Technology, and the Food and Agricultural Products, gaining firsthand insight into China’s high-level opening-up and experiencing the forefront of global industrial innovation.

Part 01: Intelligent Industry & Information Technology Exhibition Area

In this exhibition area, the students were captivated by various cutting-edge innovations. They first examined models of electric mining vehicles to learn about the application of new energy in heavy industry. Later, they interacted with humanoid robots. Kaukin Alexander, while filming a robotic arm demonstration with his mobile phone, remarked, “The precision of China’s intelligent equipment exceeds my expectations — it’s very inspiring for my programming studies.” They also explored chip technology displays and expressed admiration for China’s innovative breakthroughs in the semiconductor field. In the Automobile Manufacturing Area, they were briefed on new plexiglass hard-coating technology. The Game Technology Zone, featuring the Next-gen Haptic Controllers and VR esports, drew particular excitement as the students enthusiastically tried out immersive digital entertainment experiences.

Part 02: Country Exhibition & Food and Agricultural Products Exhibition Area

When visiting these exhibition areas, international students majoring in International Economics and Trade found strong connections to their studies. The Country Exhibition showcased distinctive products and major achievements in economic and trade cooperation from around the world. By communicating with exhibitors, they gained insight into different nations’ trade policies, industrial strengths and cooperation opportunities. The Food and Agricultural Products Exhibition Area displayed premium agricultural products, advanced food processing technologies and diverse trade models from across the globe, offering students a more tangible understanding of international trade practices. “From cross-border agricultural supply chains to global brand marketing, the CIIE allows me to truly feel the dynamics of international trade,” shared Irismatov Arslanbek, an International Economics and Trade major. “It also gives me new ideas for my academic and career development.”

Part 03: Significance and Outlook

This visit marked a key effort by ZJITC’s School of International Education to deepen educational exchanges under the Belt and Road Initiative. By taking students beyond the classroom and into international exhibition venues, the college encouraged them to experience China’s development achievements firsthand, broaden their global horizons, stimulate their passion for learning, and enhance their professional and cross-cultural communication skills.

ZJITC will continue to launch similar activities under the “Perceive the Chinese Charm, Embark on the Silk Road Youth Journey” initiative to help international students better engage with Chinese society, understand global trends, and grow into well-rounded talents with an international outlook — fostering deeper integration of international education with the fields of economy, trade and technology.