SZ, Uruguay strengthen economic ties

Representatives from local companies engaged in discussions with members of an Uruguayan delegation to explore potential business opportunities during the Shenzhen-Uruguay Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange Conference, which was held Friday at the Longhua International Cooperation Center (LICC).

The conference aimed to strengthen international economic and trade networks, foster business collaboration between Uruguay, Shenzhen, and Longhua District, and support local enterprises in expanding into Latin American markets. Representatives from more than 25 Chinese companies participated in the event.

Facundo Simon (L), consul general of Uruguay in Guangzhou, speaks with an attendee during the conference. Photos by Wang Jingli

Facundo Simon, consul general of Uruguay in Guangzhou, highlighted the importance of the conference. “Today’s event allows us to connect with Shenzhen businesses and government officials, reinforcing Uruguay’s commitment to deepening relations with Shenzhen. We are working to strengthen ties not only in trade but also between Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, and Shenzhen. This conference confirms that we are on the right path toward achieving our goals.”

China is already Uruguay’s largest trading partner, primary export destination, and leading buyer of its agricultural products. However, Simon expressed a desire to broaden cooperation beyond agriculture into sectors like electric vehicles and green energy.

“Our collaboration goes beyond trade — it’s about deeper, long-term partnerships. Today’s event is a perfect example of that vision,” he added.

Lucas Dávila (C), an expert from Uruguay’s National Meat Institute, exchanges views with local entrepreneurs during the conference.

Lucas Dávila, a market intelligence expert from Uruguay’s National Meat Institute (INAC), delivered a presentation on Uruguay’s agribusiness and the institute’s role in ensuring high-quality meat production.

As a key institution in Uruguay’s meat industry, INAC is responsible for promoting, regulating, and ensuring the quality of Uruguayan meat products both domestically and internationally. Uruguay exports 80% of its beef production annually, according to Dávila.

Visiting Shenzhen for the first time, Dávila was impressed by the city’s rapid development and saw huge potential for premium Uruguayan meat products in the local market.

During the meeting, the Longhua District Commerce Bureau also presented an overview of the district's development and investment opportunities to the Uruguayan delegation.

Longhua District is one of Shenzhen’s industrial powerhouses. The LICC is dedicated to deepening exchanges and practical cooperation between Shenzhen and cities worldwide in various fields such as economics, trade, technology, education, and culture.