In ancient times, Chinese merchants headed west to transport tea to Europe. Today, Italian trader Nicola Sangiovanni is helping European wines travel east to China.

Two years ago, he was inspired to start a business selling imported food and drink in Chongqing, a bustling metropolis in the southwest, after hearing about the Belt and Road Initiative.

"I think China is very open, and this kind of opening up (the initiative) is a good opportunity for cooperation," he said, standing in the Italian Pavilion at the Chongqing International Exhibition and Trading Center, where his business is based.