IBI chief Ibrahim unveils Belt & Road Trade Hub in Changshu

CHANGSHU (Jiangsu Province of China): In a landmark event symbolizing deepening global economic ties, the Belt and Road Economic and Trade Center (BRETC) officially opened its doors in Changshu City on Tuesday, positioning itself as a strategic hub for multilateral trade, investment, and cultural exchange under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) under the leadership of IBI Chairman Ibrahim Munir, says a Press release.
Chairman of IBI Group Ibrahim Munir said the central would enhance trade, investment, culture cooperation and economic development between China and the world.
The ceremony, attended by over 100 dignitaries including ambassadors, consuls-general, government officials, and business leaders, marked a significant step toward fostering cross-border collaboration.
Strategic Vision and One-Stop Solutions: Chaired by Ibrahim Munir, Chairman of IBI International Group – the initiator and primary funder of BRETC – the center aims to break traditional trade barriers by offering a comprehensive platform for BRI member nations. Located in Changshu’s High-Tech Zone, a thriving industrial cluster near major ports like Shanghai and Suzhou, BRETC provides free office spaces, legal support, and business matchmaking services for three years to partner countries. Munir emphasized Changshu’s unique advantages: “From textiles and solar manufacturing to biotech, this region offers unparalleled industrial diversity and connectivity. Coupled with favorable government policies, it’s an ideal gateway for global enterprises.”
Accelerating Multilateral Trade: The center arrives at a pivotal moment, with China-BRI trade hitting 22.1 trillion RMB in 2024. BRETC’s innovative model – combining procurement facilitation, technology transfers, and cultural diplomacy – has already engaged over 20 countries, with plans to expand to 30. Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, hailed the initiative as “a transformative platform for connectivity and practical cooperation,” stressing its role in empowering private sectors to compete globally.
A Hub for Green and Smart Collaboration: Beyond commerce, BRETC prioritizes sustainable development. Munir outlined plans to drive partnerships in green energy, smart manufacturing, and agricultural technology, aligning with global sustainability goals. “This is not just a business center but a bridge for shared progress,” he stated. Changshu’s local leaders echoed this vision, underscoring the city’s role as a BRI nexus and its commitment to fostering an open, innovation-driven economy.
As the spring blossoms of Jiangnan welcome a new era of cooperation, BRETC stands poised to reshape global trade dynamics, blending China’s industrial prowess with the aspirations of BRI partners worldwide.