Yemeni craftsman finds global market through China-ASEAN Expo

Amro Ali Baba, an exhibitor from Yemeni Aladdin Handcrafts Co., Ltd., stands at his booth showcasing traditional jewelry, lamps and perfumes during the 22nd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, Sept. 17, 2025. [Photo by Liu Caiyi/China.org.cn]

Amro Ali Baba of Yemeni Aladdin Handcrafts Co. is displaying jewelry, perfumes and traditional lamps at the 22nd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, which opened Wednesday.

Amro is using China's largest trade expo with Southeast Asia to showcase Middle Eastern artisanship to international buyers, reflecting the region’s growing commercial ties with Arab nations.

Having lived in the eastern Chinese city of Qingdao for eight years, Amro has participated in more than 30 exhibitions nationwide, from Beijing to Guangzhou. China has become both a home and a business hub for the Yemeni entrepreneur. 

"China's trade policies are very supportive, which is why I chose to build my life and business here," he said.

Handcrafted jewelry and ornaments from Yemen are displayed at the Yemeni Aladdin Handcrafts Co., Ltd. booth during the 22nd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, Sept. 17, 2025. [Photo by Liu Caiyi/China.org.cn]

Amro described the China-ASEAN Expo as both a marketplace and a bridge for cultural exchange. His handcrafted products, from ornate jewelry and colorful lamps to perfumes and decorative pieces, have attracted buyers from China and beyond. Each exhibition opens new opportunities, allowing him to expand beyond traditional markets and connect with global customers, he said.

Amro sees the expo as an example of China's role in facilitating international cooperation, particularly for small- and medium-sized businesses from regions like the Middle East seeking global visibility.

"Through these exhibitions, many countries see us and see our culture," he said.

Colorful Yemeni handicrafts, including traditional lamps, camels and jewelry boxes, are displayed at the Yemeni Aladdin Handcrafts Co., Ltd. booth during the 22nd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, Sept. 17, 2025. [Photo by Liu Caiyi/China.org.cn]

The success of exhibitors like Amro highlights the China-ASEAN Expo's significance beyond trade. The platform brings together cultures, facilitates idea exchanges and fosters partnerships. Organizers say the expo aims to promote regional cooperation and shared development through openness, inclusiveness and mutual benefit.

"Our products carry stories of Yemen's traditions. Through the China-ASEAN Expo, those stories now reach the world," Amro said.