EDB China Exposure Tour 2025

EDB China Exposure Tour 2025: Bridging Markets, Empowering Entrepreneurs, and Creating History

16th – 29th October 2025 | Guangzhou • Foshan • Yiwu • Shenzhen

The Economic Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with NBC Bank, successfully led a groundbreaking China Exposition familiarity tour from 16th to 29th October 2025, a journey that brought together 45 participants, including 15 brothers and 2 sisters from our community, who also took part in the tour for an immersive experience into the heart of China’s industrial and technological excellence.

The Vice Chairman of EDB Br. Mazahir Dewji guided the delegation through China’s key business hubs namely Guangzhou, Foshan, Yiwu, and Shenzhen offering participants not only an educational journey, but a lifechanging introduction to international trade, networking, innovation, and cross-cultural business engagement.

Purpose and Vision: Building Bridges Beyond Borders

The central goal of the China excursion was simple yet impactful: to expose our community members to China’s vast industrial and technological advancements, while offering tailored guidance to those traveling to China for the first time. Although many participants are seasoned travelers, this experience was designed to help newcomers navigate the unique landscapes of Chinese trade, manufacturing, and market opportunities.

By visiting factories, suppliers, markets, and business offices, participants were able to see how ideas become innovation, and how efficiency, precision, and scale can reshape the way we think about enterprise.

With NBC Bank’s partnership, the tour offered seamless logistics, visa facilitation, and on-ground support, making it possible for members to focus on learning, networking, and building valuable trade connections.

Exploring China’s Leading Business Hubs

Each city offered its own unique lesson — together forming a comprehensive business education that no classroom could replicate:

• Guangzhou- The bustling trade capital and base city for the delegation. Participants attended two phases of the Canton Fair, one of the world’s largest trade exhibitions, where they connected directly with global manufacturers and suppliers.

• Foshan- Known for its world-class furniture and interior manufacturing, Foshan showcased how China’s industries maintain high quality at unmatched production scales.

• Shenzhen – The technological powerhouse of China, where participants explored electronics markets and innovation hubs, witnessing firsthand how rapid creativity and adaptability drive success in a competitive global economy.

• Yiwu – Home to one of the largest wholesale markets in the world, Yiwu offered participants an incredible look into how international sourcing, product diversification, and logistics come together to power global trade.

Participants also visited the Silent Ocean Office, where they gained practical insights into import-export facilitation, supplier reliability, and trade partnerships.

Hands on Learning and Real-World Exposure

Throughout the tour, participants weren’t just observers; they were learners, negotiators, and explorers. They walked through factories, met suppliers face-to-face, and interacted with trading agents who shared practical guidance on everything from quality control to pricing strategies.

The team learned how to source products efficiently, navigate cultural nuances in negotiation, and manage international trade relationships with confidence and professionalism.

The trip also emphasized holistic support with halal food arrangements, visa assistance, and on ground coordination ensuring participants could focus fully on learning and exploration.

A Transformative Experience and Measurable Impact

The impact of the China Tour has been both immediate and inspiring. Participants returned home with:

• Confidence to independently travel to and trade with China.

• Established direct supplier and agent connections for future sourcing.

• A broader understanding of how to bring Chinese efficiency, design, and innovation to local markets.

More importantly, many described the experience as “eye-opening and empowering” a chance to see first-hand what is possible when ambition meets opportunity.

A Historic Milestone for the Community

This tour was more than a business trip, it was a historic milestone. For the first time, EDB successfully united community members from Tanzania, Kenya, and Malawi on a single platform of shared learning and collaboration.

Participants from Mombasa, Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Lilongwe came together with one goal: to learn, grow, and elevate their business potential. What began as a journey to explore markets turned into a profound experience of unity, teamwork, and cross-border bonding.

As Br. Mazahir Dewji, who led the AFED-EDB delegation, reflected:

“This trip was about more than trade, it was about building confidence, connecting people, and opening doors to global possibilities. The energy, curiosity, and engagement from every participant was remarkable. This is just the beginning, Insha’Allah.”

Looking Ahead

The overwhelming response and success of the China tour has set a new benchmark for what community driven initiatives can achieve. The trip’s success has inspired EDB to continue building opportunities that strengthen our community’s global economic footprint.

With plans already underway for future enlightening and instructive visits and trade programs, EDB remains committed to empowering entrepreneurs, promoting collaboration, thus nurturing a spirit of growth that reaches beyond borders.

“We have created history together,” said Br. Mazahir. “This trip united us in purpose and vision, and from here, we move forward, stronger, wiser, and ready to make our mark in the global marketplace.”

Gratitude and Acknowledgment

EDB extends heartfelt appreciation to the Chairman and the Office Bearers of the Africa Federation and the National Bank of Commerce for their partnership, efficiency, and dedication in making this journey a success. Special thanks go to all the participants who joined with enthusiasm and trust, turning this trip into not just an exposure tour, but a shared story of progress and pride.

The China exposition 2025 was a journey of discovery, a reminder that when we come together to learn and explore, we build synergies and shape business acumen for generations to come.

You may view the participants’ testimonials below.

https://youtu.be/WMl_yB_V3Og

SECRETARIAT

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD

19^TH NOVEMBER 2025