Ningbo, Zhejiang province, is set to take center stage as the first Asian host of the United Nations International Procurement Seminar (IPS) in November.

With international public procurement forming a crucial part of global trade, the UN agencies' total procurement volume has consistently grown and is expected to reach approximately $25 billion this year. By participating in the IPS, businesses can gain insight into UN procurement trends, requirements, and hot topics, register as UN suppliers, access the UN procurement network, and engage in one-on-one negotiations with UN procurement officials.

Traditionally held in Europe, the decision to bring this year’s IPS to Asia underscores the region's growing prominence in the global procurement industry. Ningbo, with its robust supply chain infrastructure and reputation as a manufacturing hub, was a natural choice to host this prestigious event.

"UN procurement, though often involving smaller profit margins and stringent conditions, is widely regarded as a 'trade passport' in international markets," said an official of Ningbo's trade promotion authority, "Securing UN procurement orders can help enterprises expand their overseas business, comprehend international procurement rules, establish stable partnerships, and foster long-term business opportunities."

To foster long-term partnerships with relevant UN agencies, Ningbo has arranged for numerous enterprises to participate in UN procurement-themed events over the years. Last year, the city hosted the China (Ningbo) UN Procurement Promotion Conference, helping nearly 110 enterprises register in the UN's global marketplace.

Using the IPS as a catalyst, Ningbo plans to establish a support system for UN procurement services. Through institutionalized cooperation with relevant UN agencies, the city aims to create a "Ningbo Model" and use UN procurement as a springboard to send Ningbo-made, Zhejiang-made, and China-made products out into the world.

"Establishing a support system for UN procurement services can help gather core enterprises, play a leading role, and encourage more enterprises to participate in UN procurement and international public procurement," said Ying Xiuzhen, vice president of China-Base Ningbo Foreign Trade Co Ltd.

James George, UNDP deputy resident representative for China, expressed his optimism about the collaboration, emphasizing the possibility of harnessing sustainable procurement practices and creating a brighter, more sustainable future together.