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“Shanghai Summer”: A Living Case of a Next-Generation Consumer Hub

SHANGHAI, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 “Shanghai Summer” International Consumption Season Global Launch took place on April 18. This year’s campaign is scheduled from early July to the second weekend of October, covering the entire summer period. Centered around the “240-Hour Products” and “City Customized Events,” the program aims to showcase Shanghai’s consumer appeal as an efficient, international metropolis. With a focus on “diversity, convenience, and family-friendliness,” Singaporean visitors are invited to experience a summer journey that blends urban quality with family enjoyment.

Expanding the Global Consumption Map: ‘Shanghai Summer’ and Its International Experiment
Expanding the Global Consumption Map: ‘Shanghai Summer’ and Its International Experiment

According to China UnionPay, during the 2024 campaign, foreign card spending in Shanghai increased by 68.2%. Notably, Huaihai Road saw a 208.6% surge in overseas card usage, with an average transaction of RMB 1,597, while Lujiazui-Zhangyang Road rose by 119.9%, with an average spend of RMB 1,998. Total offline spending reached RMB 815.9 billion, including RMB 96.4 billion in dining—a 26.9% year-on-year growth—demonstrating the city’s strong consumption momentum.

This year, the campaign launches a “starter kit” ideal for short-term trips—offering standardized, bookable urban experiences under the “240-Hour Products.” Bundled with the “Shanghai Pass” one-day ticket, the offering integrates metro transit, landmarks, and commercial privileges. A multilingual official website (www.shanghaisummer.com) and AI assistant “Shanghai Xiaoxia” support visitors with a full-process, user-friendly service. Additionally, China Eastern Airlines provides special international group fares tailored for family travel.

Xiaolong Yin, General Manager at Visa Mainland China, introduced that Visa will partner with industry partners to create the “Visa Zone for Shanghai Summer”. The Visa Zone will focus on optimizing international card acceptance across all payment scenarios, deploying diverse payment methods and innovative acceptance terminals, enhancing payment security and driving consumption, with an aim to promote international cultural and people-to-people exchanges and contribute to the construction of Shanghai as an international consumption center city. 

Families will also find their place this summer. LEGO China is expected to begin trial operations of the LEGO Discovery Resort in Shanghai, featuring eight themed zones, more than 75 rides, shows, and attractions, and 2,889 models built with over 85 million bricks. LEGO China will also host the “World Play Festival” from June 11 to July 25, featuring interactive city playgrounds and themed urban installations. Additionally, the Jinshan LEGOLAND Resort is scheduled to open during the summer vacation, further expanding the family-friendly experience. POP MART will join with its signature designer toy IPs to launch themed exhibitions, pop-ups, and immersive installations. Disney China will present four themed summer events, including Zootopia, Disney Pets, Toy Story’s 30th Anniversary, and Frozen’s “Summer Snow Festival.” Together, these leading global IPs will shape a vibrant CityWalk experience, blending culture, entertainment, and retail to create unforgettable moments for families of all kinds.

Media Contact: Lulu, media@shanghaisummer.com

Shanghai Summer: A One-of-a-Kind Seasonal Experience

SHANGHAI, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 “Shanghai Summer” International Consumption Season officially launched on 18 April at Xujiahui Centre. With innovative offerings like the “240-Hour Products” and “City Customised Events,” this year’s programme presents a city-level consumer experience that blends international lifestyle with summer vitality. The first stop of the global roadshow will arrive in Osaka, Japan this May, continuing to share Shanghai’s summer story with international audiences.

Expanding the Global Consumption Map: ‘Shanghai Summer’ and Its International Experiment
Expanding the Global Consumption Map: ‘Shanghai Summer’ and Its International Experiment

A new wave of flagship events is set to unfold. Three globally popular IPs—LEGO China, POP MART, and Shanghai Disney Resort—will join forces in Shanghai. The LEGO China Discovery Resort will enter trial operations, with the ” World Play Festival” making its global debut. POP MART will bring its “Summer Trend Play” series to life, featuring IP exhibitions, new product launches, and interactive pop-ups. Shanghai Disney Resort will also unveil various summer-themed activations, creating immersive entertainment experiences for all ages.

To enhance inbound tourism, “Shanghai Summer” integrates transportation, attractions, and retail districts into a “starter kit” experience tailored for international travellers. China Eastern Airlines will offer discounted group packages across global routes. In terms of payment, Visa is co-developing “Payment-Friendly Zones” to enhance QR code transactions and tax refund scenarios for international travelers. China UnionPay is expanding foreign card acceptance to 65,000 merchants citywide and has launched the “Shanghai Summer” themed card along with a variety of promotional offers—creating a diversified payment ecosystem that integrates credit cards, mobile payments, and digital RMB.

In 2024, offline spending in Shanghai reached RMB 815.9 billion, an 8.2% increase year-on-year. Dining consumption rose to RMB 96.4 billion, up 26.9%. Foreign card spending surged by 68.2%, with Huaihai Road seeing a 208.6% increase and the Lujiazui-Zhangyang Road area growing by 119.9%—demonstrating the city’s growing international appeal.

The official website www.shanghaisummer.com is now available in five languages. AI assistant “Shanghai Xiaoxia” is also online, with many offerings equipped with Japanese-language support—welcoming global travellers to join this vibrant summer celebration in Shanghai.

Media Contact: Lulu media@shanghaisummer.com

Photo: https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/shanghai_design_week-1.jpg

Innovation and Collaboration: Advancing China’s Blood Purification Industry

LIUYANG, China, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On April 19, 2025, the Blood Purification Professional Committee (BPPC) of the China Medical Device Industry Association (CMDIA) gathered in Liuyang, Hunan, for its annual conference, themed “Synergy and Endless Innovation.” This pivotal event united regulatory leaders, academic experts, and pioneering medical device companies to propel advancements in blood purification technologies, integral to treating kidney disease, poisoning, multi-organ failure, and immune disorders.

With over 120 million people suffering from chronic kidney disease, and over 1 million requiring dialysis, affordable and accessible treatment is urgent. Historically reliant on expensive imported technologies, China’s shift towards domestic innovation marks a transformative era under BPPC’s leadership.  “Our mission is to connect cutting-edge technology with patient needs,” stated Professor Wang Niansong, the committee’s chair and Chief of Nephrology at Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital. The conference highlighted collaborative efforts across academia, industry, and regulators that are enhancing blood purification systems including advancements in blood purification technologies, smart monitoring systems, and integrated care platforms.

Companies like Chongqing’s SWS Medical are at the forefront of this movement, exemplifying innovation and significantly contributing to national standards. Tong Jin, Director of SWS Medical’s Technology Center, shared the company’s decade-long journey, highlighting breakthroughs in dialysis machines and high-end continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) equipment. “Our achievements, recognized through key national programs and patents, show that Chinese firms can lead in complex medical fields,” he said, reflecting the industry’s broader push toward self innovation and excellence.

The conference explored innovations including precision medicine with targeted plasma purification and AI-optimized parameters, alongside breakthroughs like ultra-pure dialysis via Central Concentrate Delivery System and IoT-enabled smart peritoneal dialysis management. Advances in treatments for kidney diseases, including Immunoglobulin A nephropathy and emerging technologies like gene sequencing and stem cells, signal a shift toward proactive health management. These multidisciplinary and early intervention efforts have significant global potential.

The conference centered on integrating artificial intelligence to develop “Smart Hemodialysis” ecosystems, with companies like SWS Medical leading this shift through their “Device + System + Service” model that synergies medical devices, data analytics, and remote services to boost efficiency and expand accessibility, especially in underserved  areas. With domestic medical device registration reaching  67.01% and over 90% of blood perfusion devices now localized, China’s advancements are firmly supported by robust government initiatives and market-driven innovation, ensuring adherence to stringent clinical and regulatory standards.

Chinese companies are now exporting affordable, high-quality solutions that challenge Western-dominated markets while aligning with the “Healthy China 2030” strategy and the World Health Organization’s 2030 goals for chronic kidney disease. As China approaches  the conclusion of its 14th Five-Year Plan, this conference signifies a pivotal moment, with the committee’s leadership and companies like SWS Medical spearheading a transformation toward intelligent, patient-centered, and globally competitive technologies.

For patients, this translates to greater access to life-saving treatments, while for the global medical community, it underscores China’s emergence as a leader in healthcare innovation. As Professor Wang eloquently stated, “The spark of innovation ignited here will transform lives far beyond China’s borders.”

 

TESSAN Explores the Next Era of Charging at Global Sources Hong Kong 2025

HONG KONG, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TESSAN, a leading brand in charging solutions, has announced its active participation in the prestigious trade exhibition, Global Sources Hong Kong 2025. The event is taking place from April 18 to 21, with TESSAN’s booth located at 10Q33. During the exhibition, TESSAN will showcase its latest innovative products and provide visitors with a unique charging experience.

Together with TESSAN, explore the next era of Charging.
Together with TESSAN, explore the next era of Charging.

On the first day of the exhibition, attendees from around the world gathered to witness the latest technological advancements, and TESSAN undoubtedly stood out as a major highlight. With the theme “Charging the Future,” TESSAN captured the attention of all participants.  The convenience brought by technological progress is something everyone desires, and TESSAN has invited global users to join them in “exploring the next era of charging,” together witnessing the future of charging technology.

Exhibit Highlights: Efficient Charging Solutions

At the exhibition, TESSAN will present several groundbreaking charging solutions, including:

1. 140W Universal Travel Adapter

This adapter supports a power output of up to 140W, effectively meeting the charging needs of various global devices. Its compact size and universally compatible plug design make it an ideal choice for international travelers and business trips. Whether at an airport, hotel, or in a foreign country, the TESSAN 140W Travel Adapter provides reliable and stable charging support.

2. 100W Multi-Device Charging Station

This charging station can simultaneously charge multiple devices with a maximum output of 100W. It supports the charging of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices at the same time. Its intelligent battery management system ensures that each port automatically adjusts the current based on the device’s requirements, providing a safe and efficient charging experience.

3. PD20W 10,000mAh Power Bank

This compact, portable power bank offers impressive charging capabilities. With support for 20W Power Delivery (PD) fast charging, it can quickly charge smartphones, tablets, and other devices, ensuring your gadgets remain powered during your adventures. It is ideal for travel, outdoor activities, and a variety of on-the-go situations.

4. Magnetic Power Bank

The TESSAN Magnetic Power Bank offers a sleek 10,000mAh capacity with 20W fast charging for your devices. Featuring a convenient magnetic design, it securely attaches to your phone for hassle-free wireless charging. And don’t forget the built-in Lightning cables and the convenient blue indicator light, which truly make this remarkable gadget an ideal choice for both travel and daily use. Just think about it: when you forget to charge your phone overnight and find yourself in a rush to get to work the next day, you’ll understand the significance of this product. It’s time to say goodbye to “low battery”.

Exploring the Future of Charging

TESSAN embodies an innovative spirit and is dedicated to delivering more efficient and intelligent charging solutions for users worldwide. At the Global Sources Hong Kong 2025 exhibition, TESSAN engaged with attendees to discuss future trends in charging technologies and showcased its latest advancements in smart accessories. TESSAN warmly invites global users to visit booth 10Q33 to experience its innovative products firsthand and gain insights into the future development trends of charging technology.

Join TESSAN’s mission to enhance the planet

TESSAN has always firmly believed that small actions can grow into mighty forests. Even the smallest efforts can help save the planet and change the world. TESSAN hereby calls on more individuals to join in these efforts to improve the planet, allowing the environment and technology to progress together. Let’s Charge for the Future.

About TESSAN

TESSAN, a trusted partner in charging solutions, is committed to enriching experiences both at home and during travel. The brand offers a wide array of products, including multifunctional power strips, travel adapters, wall extenders, and smart home devices. Supported by a robust R&D and production team, TESSAN develops innovative socket products for users across the globe. With the trust of over 20 million users, TESSAN empowers their journeys from home to every destination, promoting environmentally conscious electricity usage.

For more information, visit www.tessan.com or the TESSAN Amazon store, and follow TESSAN on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

CONTACT: Derien Lin, derien@tessan.com

Smart Mobility and Green Transportation in Focus at the 137th Canton Fair

GUANGZHOU, China, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As global demand for sustainable transportation continues to accelerate, the smart mobility and green transportation sector is experiencing rapid growth. According to industry forecasts, the global electric vehicle market is expected to surpass 950 billion USD by 2030, driven by advancements in electrification, digitalization, and carbon reduction technologies. At the forefront of this movement, the 137th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) is showcasing companies pushing the boundaries of innovation in this space.

Among the notable exhibitors, Sinotruk is introducing its HOWO Commander electric light truck, drawing significant interest from international buyers. This truck features a spacious, flat-floor wide-body cabin, a dual-stage electric drive axle, fast-charging capability, and enhanced battery safety systems. A representative from Sinotruk noted that the model has already entered the Southeast Asian market, emphasizing the company’s commitment to tailoring its design to meet the specific needs of different regions as part of its global expansion strategy.

Next to Sinotruk’s booth, GAC is demonstrating three new models, including the Trumpchi S7, Hyper HL, and Aion UT, alongside a suite of smart technologies including the GoMate intelligent robot, the A480 ultra-fast charging station, and a 7kW home charger. The booth created an immersive experience by integrating futuristic technologies into everyday lifestyle scenarios, attracting interest from buyers across Europe, the Middle East, and South America.

Two-wheeled electric mobility solutions also made a strong impression. Xiangjin (Tianjin) Cycle Co., Ltd. participated in a themed product release event held on the central stage between Areas A and B. The theme release is part of the Canton Fair New Collection, which spotlights innovative products, technologies, materials, and designs through diverse formats such as release at booths, online gallery, and live sessions. Xiangjin unveiled two premium electric bicycles designed specifically for markets that focus more on a low-carbon lifestyle, featuring carbon fiber frames and fully concealed wiring, combining minimalist aesthetics with rugged functionality to meet the evolving expectations of eco-conscious urban commuters.

As smart technology and sustainable mobility increasingly intersect, progress depends on the seamless integration of various components, electric powertrains, charging networks, advanced materials, and user-centric applications. The Canton Fair provides a critical platform for stakeholders across the supply chain to connect, collaborate, and accelerate the global shift toward smarter, greener transportation.


 

Horizon Robotics Rolls Out HSD Urban Driving Assistance System for Mass Production, Global Debut with Chery Automobile Scheduled for September

SHANGHAI, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Horizon Robotics (stock code: 9660.HK), a leading provider of smart driving solutions for passenger vehicles, today hosted its 2025 Annual Product Launch Event in Shanghai, officially unveiling the mass production rollout of its HSD (Horizon SuperDrive™) urban driving assistance system. At the event, Horizon Robotics and Chery Automobile also announced that HSD will make its global mass-production debut with Chery’s EXEED in September 2025.

Taking Smart Driving to New Heights

The HSD urban driving assistance system is built on the company’s signature software and hardware co-optimization capabilities. Powered by Horizon’s Journey™ 6 processing hardware and an innovative end‑to‑end architecture, HSD simulates human driving behavior to provide a truly human-like experience. It enables safe, efficient, comfortable, and reliable travel experiences for both drivers and passengers.

To meet diverse market demands, Horizon launched three versions of its HSD system, offering advanced driving assistance capabilities suitable for vehicles ranging from entry-level to premium models. Developed entirely in-house and optimized for mass production, the HSD family redefines efficiency and scalability. Additionally, Horizon has introduced its breakthrough “Horizon Cell” with upgradable plug-and-play hardware. This modular approach offers OEM partners zero switching cost and maximum flexibility, making HSD a strategic enabler for accelerating the adoption of smart driving across all market segments.

“Our goal is to create the best smart driving products loved by people everywhere,” said Dr. Yu Kai, Founder and CEO of Horizon Robotics. “We aspire to make the car a trusted smart companion that is truly accessible to all.”

Global Mass-Production Debut with Chery in September

As a longstanding strategic partner of Chery Automobile, Horizon Robotics has empowered multiple vehicle models across Chery’s four premium brands with its Journey series processing hardware since 2021. Building on the exceptional smart driving experiences of over 100,000 vehicle owners, the two companies today annoucned that the HSD full-stack system is set to make its global debut in a new model under Chery’s EXEED brand, with mass production scheduled to begin in September of this year.

“Horizon Robotics stands as our cornerstone partner in smart mobility, with their HSD representing the leading urban driving assistance solutions available today,” stated Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Automobile. “Both Chery and Horizon Robotics are united by an unwavering dedication to technology, safety, and quality — all aimed at establishing our smart driving solutions as the trusted and preferred choice for consumers worldwide.”

Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Automobile, and Dr. Yu Kai, Founder and CEO of Horizon Robotics
Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Automobile, and Dr. Yu Kai, Founder and CEO of Horizon Robotics

Beyond Chery Automobile, Horizon Robotics and Volkswagen Group also recently announced further cooperation on advanced driving assistance systems based on HSD, leveraging R&D conducted by their joint venture CARIZON. Several Volkswagen vehicle models powered by CARIZON’s technology are scheduled to enter production in 2026.

Empower Every Journey with Human-Centric Smart Driving Technology

Backed by its software and hardware co-optimization approach, a highly scalable business model and extensive experience in mass production, Horizon Robotics has built a robust ecosystem encompassing over 40 OEMs and car brands, including all the TOP 10 OEMs in China. So far, Horizon Robotics has secured over 310 design-wins across a wide range of passenger vehicles, with over 200 vehicle models now available in the market.

As smart driving starts to become a standard feature across all vehicle models, Horizon remains committed to its human-centered company philosophy, striving to deliver energy-efficient and cost-optimized driving assistance solutions at scale and to bring safe, seamless, all‑scenario smart mobility to drivers and passengers worldwide.

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About Horizon Robotics
With its mission to make human life safer and better, Horizon Robotics is a leading provider of smart driving solutions for passenger vehicles, empowered by its proprietary software and hardware technologies. Its solutions combine cutting-edge algorithms, purpose-built software and processing hardware, providing the core technologies for smart driving that enhance the safety and experience of drivers and passengers. Horizon Robotics is a key enabler for the smart vehicle transformation and commercialization with its integrated solutions deployed on mass scale.

Beijing Review: Redefining studying abroad in a changing world

BEIJING, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A new vision for global education has emerged – one shaped by shifting student priorities, geopolitical challenges and the rise of non-traditional destinations.

The United States, once the most popular study-abroad destination for Chinese students, has failed to secure a spot among the top three in the latest evaluation of study-abroad destinations. It ranks fourth behind the United Kingdom, Singapore and Canada, according to the 2025 Blue Book on China’s Study Abroad, released at the China Study Abroad Forum (CSAF) in Beijing on April 11.

Themed Quality, Trust and Safety: For the Sustainable Development of International Education, the forum highlighted shifting trends in global education and student mobility.

Wang Daquan, Director of the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange, addresses attendees at the China Study Abroad Forum on April 11 in Beijing (WEI YAO)
Wang Daquan, Director of the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange, addresses attendees at the China Study Abroad Forum on April 11 in Beijing (WEI YAO)

The CSAF was held in conjunction with the 30th China International Education Exhibition Tour (CIEET), which took place across Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan and Guangzhou from April 11 to 20. The events were organized by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) and brought together educational institutions from around the world.

Since the launch of CIEET in 1999 and CSAF in 2004, the events have served as platforms for international institutions to connect with Chinese students and build stronger educational links.

At the forum, Xu Qingsen, Vice Minister of Education, reaffirmed China’s commitment to “high-quality educational exchange” and two-way mobility. “We will improve our services for students going abroad, while attracting more international students to study in China. This forms the foundation of strong civic ties between nations,” he said.

Forum guests also called for stronger ties through education. Maria Fasli, Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Essex, the UK, emphasized that “no single country can solve today’s global challenges alone,” calling on graduates to become globally minded citizens.

The blue book, produced by a panel of over 30 experts who assessed 28 countries across multiple dimensions, revealed a growing diversification in destination and degree program choices among Chinese students.

Though the U.S. still ranked first in education quality and student employability, it failed to make the top 10 in terms of safety, and ranked only ninth in trust and openness.

The blue book highlighted mounting concerns with geopolitical tensions, restrictive academic policies and frequent safety reminders, which were cited as critical risk factors. On April 9, China’s Ministry of Education issued an overseas study alert advising students to assess security risks when considering studies in certain U.S. states. The move came after the state of Ohio passed legislation restricting educational ties with Chinese institutions.

In addition to traditional destinations such as the U.S., the United Kingdom and Australia, this year’s exhibition attracted universities from 24 other countries and regions, including several participants from Belt and Road Initiative countries including Kazakhstan, Hungary and Poland, with Ecuador and Viet Nam making their debuts. In total, 246 institutions took part in the events, which together hosted nearly 450 pavilions.

One student, Chen Bi, told Yangcheng Evening News she chose a one-year master’s program in accounting at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University in Almaty, Kazakhstan. “It only costs a third of what I’d pay in Europe, and there’s no language or GPA requirement,” she said.

For Chen, who was recently laid off, the program offers both a breather and a stepping stone toward future employment back in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, where local governments offer incentives for returnees with degrees from overseas institutions.

Yet non-traditional destinations come with trade-offs. According to Yangcheng Evening News, many employers remain unfamiliar with lesser-known universities, which may disadvantage graduates in a competitive job market.

At the forum, Wang Daquan, Director of the CSCSE, said the employment consulting services CSCSE offers aim to bridge the gap between returnees and employers, noting over 310,000 students and 1,700 companies are already using the consulting platform.

“Students today seek more than a diploma. They want skills, cultural literacy and global perspective,” Wang said during a press conference ahead of the forum.

CSCSE has also launched a Global Study Mobility Alliance, co-founded by 20 Chinese and international universities, and announced two new initiatives: Study Tours in China and Study Tours Around the World, aimed at fostering cross-cultural skills through short-term exchanges.

Comments to liwenhan@cicgamericas.com

Beijing Review: Study in China, Study in the World

BEIJING, April 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — During a sub-forum on April 11, scholars, educators and international students from across the globe discussed the evolving importance of studying abroad, under the theme Study in China, Study in the World.

Representatives from Italy, Germany, the U.S., Egypt and China attend a sub-forum of the China Study Abroad Forum (CSAF), held on April 11 in Beijing (WEI YAO)
Representatives from Italy, Germany, the U.S., Egypt and China attend a sub-forum of the China Study Abroad Forum (CSAF), held on April 11 in Beijing (WEI YAO)

Themed “Quality, Trust and Safety: for the Sustainable Development of International Education,” the China Study Abroad Forum (CSAF), held on April 11 in Beijing, highlighted shifting trends in global education and student mobility.

The event emphasized not only institutional cooperation, but also the broader value of cultural dialogue through international education. The gathering featured representatives from Italy, Germany, the U.S., Egypt and China, each sharing their views on intercultural learning and academic mobility.

Ma Xiaole, Dean of International Education at Shandong University, emphasized how Confucian philosophy has been creatively embedded in the university’s programs for international students. “We teach Confucian values not only through books but through real-life, immersive experiences. Students participate in traditional ceremonies and explore how values like perseverance and moral integrity shape Chinese society today,” she explained. “True understanding comes from living the culture, not just reading about it.”

Representing Germany’s DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), Ole Engelhardt noted that Germany has facilitated academic exchange with China for over four decades. “What we consistently hear from German students is how their image of China changes after visiting – especially seeing how advanced and diverse it is,” he said. He added that despite recent geopolitical uncertainties, visa access for Chinese students in Germany remains smooth.

Edilio Mazzoleni, Director of the Centre for Global Engagement and International Education, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, shared personal reflections on his journey in China since 2005, emphasizing how trust, friendships and curiosity shaped his understanding of the country.

“I advocate for studying abroad because it gives you new lenses through which to see the world,” he said, also announcing that the university plans to launch a Chinese-language program by 2026.

“My experience studying in China completely changed my life,” said Mohamed Jihad, a foreign expert at the Center for International Cultural Communication of China International Communications Group, recounting his journey from language learner to becoming what he jokingly calls “a Chinese son-in-law.” He emphasized that real understanding requires seeing China through first-hand experience – not through foreign media narratives.

Jason Patent, former Director of the Robertson Center for Intercultural Leadership at the University of California at Berkeley, stressed the need for students to develop intercultural skills. “Studying abroad isn’t just about knowledge – it’s about building the emotional and behavioral tools to thrive in unfamiliar environments,” he said. His program takes students to seven regions around the world to prepare them for both academic and global leadership success.

The forum concluded by proposing that study abroad is a two-way bridge – helping the world understand China, and helping China connect with the world. As one speaker put it, the classroom may start in Beijing or Milan, but the real education happens in the space between.

The CSAF was held in conjunction with the 30th China International Education Exhibition Tour (CIEET), which took place across Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, and Guangzhou from April 11 to 20. The events were organized by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) and brought together educational institutions from around the world.

Since the founding of CIEET in 1999 and CSAF in 2004, the events have served as platforms for international institutions to connect with Chinese students and build stronger educational links.

Comments to liwenhan@cicgamericas.com