(Yicai Global) July 9 -- South Pacific island nations including Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa and others have opened a joint cultural, tourism and trade exhibition in the Shanghai Free Trade Zone to boost ties with China.

The South Pacific Islands Union Pavilion is a government-authorized service platform permitted to engage in investment, trade, and cultural tourism exchanges, the Shanghai Observer reported. The latest addition gives the eastern metropolis' FTZ eight national or regional exhibition halls that aim to promote China's Belt and Road Initiative.

The first part of the hall, which opened today, will comprise display areas for tourism and cultural exchanges, household and personal care products, and tuna, seafood and other specialties from the islands. There are also mobile offices and meeting rooms to facilitate business negotiations.

The second phase will open after the second China International Import Expo in November this year, and will include post-conference exhibitions and annual events to promote products from the South Pacific.

Editor: James Boynton