On June 11, MOFCOM officially launched its 2025 series of promotional activities on the implementation of free trade agreements (FTAs). Li Chenggang, China International Trade Representative and Vice Minister of Commerce, delivered a keynote presentation via video. The first session of this online promotional series focused on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). More than 24,000 participants joined the event, including representatives from the commerce authorities of Provinces, Autonomous Regions, Municipalities, Cities under Separate State Planning, the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Economic and Commercial Offices of the Mission of China to ASEAN and the Embassies of China in RCEP member countries, as well as chambers of commerce and enterprises.

Li Chenggang emphasized that the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council attach great importance to the development of free trade areas. China has signed 23 FTAs with 30 countries and regions. As the world’s largest free trade area, RCEP plays a vital role in promoting regional trade and investment. Against the backdrop of rising unilateralism and protectionism and growing risks of global trade fragmentation, FTAs are playing an increasingly critical role in upholding a rules-based international economic and trade order. Li expressed hope that local authorities, diplomatic missions, and businesses will closely align FTA implementation with their actual development needs, fully explore the market potential and industrial and supply chain opportunities under the agreements, and contribute to the high-quality development of China’s foreign trade.

Li also stressed that commerce authorities at all levels should step up publicity efforts and enhance the supply of public services to help enterprises leverage the benefits of FTAs more effectively. Diplomatic commercial missions should serve as bridges, strengthening communication with host governments and relevant enterprises to address issues arising in the implementation of FTAs. Enterprises, he noted, should make full use of the opportunities created by FTAs and maximize the policy dividends they offer.

During the event, officials from MOFCOM, the General Administration of Customs, and other relevant departments gave systematic briefings on the overall framework and key provisions of RCEP, rules on goods trade and market access commitments, as well as rules of origin and procedures for preferential customs clearance.

This online event marked the beginning of a year-long series of promotional activities focused on the implementation of FTAs. Subsequent sessions will include policy briefings and experience sharing related to newly signed or prioritized agreements and key industries, helping enterprises better understand and utilize the FTA provisions.