Africa-Press – Seychelles. A new chapter in private sector collaboration
The Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry had the distinct honour of attending a diplomatic dinner hosted by Chinese Ambassador Lin Nan last Thursday.
The evening brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from the Seychelles private sector, including representatives from the export fisheries industry, tourism establishments, construction sector, wholesale and retail trade, and the Seychelles Bureau of Standards.
This cordial and constructive engagement reflects the continued deepening of the relationship between the Chinese embassy and the Seychelles business community. Discussions were marked by mutual respect, shared vision, and a reaffirmed commitment to advancing trade and investment between both nations.
Ambassador Lin Nan and the Seychelles Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) exchanged views on strengthening bilateral trade flows notably enhancing import and export activities between Seychelles and China. The engagement underscored the importance of structured collaboration and open dialogue to resolve technical and logistical challenges faced by Seychelles-based exporters and importers. Particular attention was given to unlocking greater access for Seychelles fish products in the Chinese market, along with exploring quality and standards alignment through institutional collaboration.
The dinner also celebrated the growing momentum surrounding the upcoming direct flights between Chengdu and Seychelles, a development that symbolises more than just a route, but a bridge of opportunity for tourism, cultural exchange, and commercial growth.
A highlight of the evening was the announcement that the SCCI is currently in discussion with the Chinese embassy regarding Seychelles’ potential participation in the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE), scheduled for November 5–10, 2025 in Shanghai. Organised by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and the Shanghai Municipal Government, the CIIE is one of the world’s largest import-themed expos, creating exceptional visibility for businesses from around the globe.
The SCCI aims to lead a private sector delegation to the Expo, providing an unparalleled platform for Seychelles-based businesses to showcase their products and services to the Chinese market and beyond. Interested businesses are encouraged to contact the SCCI secretariat for more details.
The participation of the Seychelles Bureau of Standards at the dinner further emphasised the importance of public–private partnership (PPP) in forging a robust trade framework between the two countries. Strengthening these institutional links remains a key pillar in facilitating a fair and quality-assured trading relationship.
In his remarks, SCCI chairman, Oliver Bastienne, reaffirmed the private sector’s commitment to this evolving partnership. “We remain fully committed to building bridges of economic collaboration that are respectful, structured, and sustainable. Our relationship with China holds vast potential, and tonight is a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much further we can go – together.”
The SCCI extends its gratitude to Ambassador Lin Nan and the Chinese embassy for their continued support and partnership, and looks forward to furthering initiatives that bring our business communities closer in a spirit of shared prosperity.
Cheers to a growing friendship and the opportunities ahead!
Contributed
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