Zhejiang importers are pooling overseas resources and sharing distribution channels through joint appearances at the ninth China International Import Expo, which opened in Shanghai on Nov 5.

Many have extensive overseas experience and trade networks. Their businesses are expanding from distribution into brand management, technical standards, and cross-border supply chain integration.

Qingtian Imported Commodity City Group in Lishui organized 11 companies to exhibit more than 400 imported products. Among them, Spanish ham trader La Encina operates its own brand in China while distributing premium Spanish brands.

Founder Zhou Jianguo has been based in Spain for nearly 30 years. The company sources raw materials for ham production from local manufacturers and provides technical standards for customized production.

Since last year, it has been developing a distributor network in China for branded and specialty stores. The network now includes more than 10 distributors, extending its links between Spanish producers and Chinese consumers.