The pre-expo matchmaking session for service and automobile companies participating in the third China International Import Expo was held in Shanghai on Friday.

International big names in the two sectors, such as Volkswagen, Ford and KPMG, attended the session to meet domestic buyers, including China National Petroleum Corporation, State Grid and SAIC Motor.

Liu Fuxue, deputy director-general of the CIIE bureau, said holding the third edition of the expo will play a positive role in stimulating consumption, ensuring stability in foreign trade and investment as well as security in supply chains.

"The CIIE is a link for 'dual circulation' in which domestic and foreign markets can boost each other, and a platform for companies to turn challenge into opportunity," he said.

The report on the retailing market delivered by Tao Rongrong, director of KPMG's Trade & Customs Services, echoed Liu's view.

It said retailing in China has been rebounding fast since April as COVID-19 has been largely controlled in the country, but companies should adapt to new trends such as the accelerated rise of purchases made on internet platforms.