Connect with local Chinese buyers and retailers

Supplying the Chinese market and understanding how to do business in China are two major topics that will be addressed at the Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) 6th annual Fresh Connections: China, organised in Shenzhen at the Grand Hyatt Hotel on March 20 and 21.

At the event, global produce suppliers interested in exporting to China can connect directly with major retail, e-commerce and wholesale buyers. More than 15 participating buyers are already confirmed, including Tmall Fresh (Alibaba), JD.com, Fruitday.com, CR Vanguard, Walmart China/Sam’s Club, Pagoda, Hema Supermarket, Lantao, Joy Wing Mau, and more.

Click here for the PMA Fresh Connections: China official website

Shenzhen
This is the first time the event is being held in Shenzhen. Shenzhen is the largest trading port for mainland China in terms of both volume and value, as well as the home to leading retailers in China including CR Vanguard, Walmart and Pagoda.

Cathy Burns, CEO of PMA, explains why this year's event will be hosted in Shenzhen: "PMA recognizes that China is a big country with different needs and preferences in each region. Shenzhen is a key port of entry in south China for fruits and vegetables destined for mainland China. In addition, retailers such as CR Vanguard, Pagoda, and Walmart China are headquartered there, along with major importers. We are very excited about establishing and enhancing our relationships with import and retail leaders in southern China."

China, like other countries outside North America, is an important growth and focus region for PMA. "PMA has members in 43 countries. Non-U.S. members are our fastest growing membership sector. China in particular presents many opportunities for the global fresh produce and floral industries, especially in light of consumer demand and a preference for international brands. Consider that last year, China's fresh food e-commerce industry grew by 59.7 percent. In that growth, fruit was the most frequently purchased item, followed by dairy and vegetables. As a global trade association, PMA seeks to turn the global produce and floral supply chain into an interconnected community of people and ideas that will stimulate demand for fruits, vegetables, and floral. Fresh Connections: China in Shenzhen, helps bring buyers and sellers together and is just one part of our vision to grow a healthier world.”

Fresh Connections Conference
The event starts on March 20 with an optional tour of local retail stores. On Wednesday March 21, the conference will take place. The aim of the conference is to convey knowing the right people and the strategies necessary to secure an expansive future in China.

“It is an incredible honor to have leaders from across the Chinese and global supply chain lend their insights and perspectives to Fresh Connections: China,” said Burns. “Being able to tap into that knowledge base among our membership differentiates PMA from other events. In Shenzhen, we will be exploring topics such as e-commerce, Blockchain, product branding to get a premium, the impact of growing domestic production, and market access.” Burns added, “I’m particularly pleased to be moderating a panel of global leaders on ‘How to think like a CEO.’ As a former retailer, I am also looking forward to seeing the innovations at Pagoda, Hema Fresh, Walmart and other buyers during the optional tour that we’re offering on March 20.”

Click here for the latest line-up and key speakers

“Creating business connections is at the heart of what Fresh Connections China is all about,” Burns explained. “We work hard to draw the right audience to the event, and to secure the right speakers to address the most relevant topics facing the industry. Whether your interest is in new technology, domestic production trends or exporting to China, being in Shenzhen will help grow your business.”

Click here to sign up for PMA Fresh Connections: China

Lisa McVey
PMA
www.pma.com
www.pma.com/events/fresh-connections-china