Chengdu: The President of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SAARC CCI), Mr. Chandi Raj Dhakal, has urged for a more extensive economic collaboration between China and South Asia during two key conferences in Chengdu from July 7 to 10, 2026. The events, organized with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Sichuan Council, the Standardization Administration of China (SAC), and the Chengdu Municipal Government, were aimed at strengthening trade and standardization efforts between the regions.

According to SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Dhakal emphasized the need for integrated cooperation in industrial ventures, agricultural modernization, digital economy, and support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). His remarks highlighted a significant increase in trade between China and the SAARC nations, with trade surpassing USD 200 billion in 2025 and continuing to grow in 2026. He reiterated the importance of moving beyond transactional trade to foster long-term partnerships.

At the 4th China-South Asia Standardization Cooperation Working Conference, Mr. Dhakal stressed the necessity of harmonizing product and testing standards to ease trade, particularly for SMEs. He advocated for mutual recognition of standards and a shared digital platform to facilitate smoother trade relations. The conference also saw the unveiling of an Action Plan between SAC and the Sri Lanka Standards Institution and the introduction of the "Chengdu Initiative."

The conferences attracted participation from a wide array of dignitaries and business leaders from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and China, further solidifying the importance of collaborative efforts in driving economic growth in the region.