BEIJING, Nov. 3 (Xinhuanet) -- The first ever China-ASEAN Exposition has opened in Nanning, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Attending ASEAN members are hoping this new mechanism will help promote China-ASEAN trade. The Chinese government has also attached great importance to the event.

    The Chinese government has issued a number of preferential policies for the Expo, including tariff-free approval for some of the exhibits on display. Trade authorities say they will continue to promote efficient trade between China and ASEAN members.     

    ASEAN members have already become important trade partners for China. In 2003, the trade volume between China and ASEAN exceeded 70 billion US dollars. A variety of activities will be held during the expo, including the China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit, investment negotiations and cultural exchanges.

    (cctv.com)