Slovenia took centre stage at the China-CEEC Expo in Ningbo on 22 May, unveiling a forward-looking agenda centred on high-tech, green mobility, and strategic trade ties.
As an honoured guest at the largest Chinese trade fair for Central and Eastern Europe, Ljubljana stressed shared views on open global trade and pushed for smoother access to critical rare earths—essential for the electrification of transport.
In a candid exchange, Slovenia’s State Secretary Matjaž Frangež and China’s Deputy Minister of Commerce Ling Jie underlined mutual opposition to tariffs and a commitment to rules-based commerce.
Frangež said China valued Slovenia’s position on international trade and that the two nations shared many perspectives, including a belief in open dialogue.
He added that Slovenia had asked China to address certain import issues, particularly those affecting access to rare earth elements.
Slovenia also touted its port of Koper as a vital logistics hub for Chinese goods entering Europe. With national and commercial pavilions showcasing 15 Slovenian firms—including innovators like Pipistrel and Elan—the country positioned itself as a launchpad for Chinese investment into Europe.
Frangež said Slovenia wanted to be recognised in China for its innovation, strategic approach, and cutting-edge technologies—from AI to quantum science.
