As autumn arrives in Guangzhou, the 138th China Import and Export Fair, widely known as the Canton Fair, has opened its doors, bringing together merchants and buyers from across the world.

The event, which began on October 15, is celebrated as the ‘barometer’ and ‘weather vane’ of China’s foreign trade, setting new records this year with 74,600 booths and more than 32,000 exhibitors.

During the evolving global trade landscape, the fair underscores China’s growing role in international economic cooperation and innovation. More than 1 million new products are being showcased, alongside 1.1 million items with independent intellectual property rights, including nearly 800,000 making their debut.

For the first time, over 10,000 high-quality enterprises, comprising high-tech firms, specialized and innovative companies, and leading single-product manufacturers, are participating, representing 34% of all export exhibitors.

This milestone highlights the strengthening of China’s innovation-driven economy and the global recognition of its intelligent manufacturing capabilities.

The event has also drawn unprecedented interest from international buyers. By the opening day, over 240,000 buyers from 218 countries and regions had pre-registered, a 10% increase from the previous session.

Participation from Belt and Road Initiative countries saw a notable rise, underscoring the Canton Fair’s expanding influence as a hub for global trade connectivity.

Spanning 55 exhibition zones, the fair covers sectors ranging from advanced manufacturing and intelligent technology to consumer goods and green, low-carbon industries.

By presenting China’s comprehensive industrial strength and innovative momentum, the Canton Fair continues to serve as a vital platform linking global buyers with high-quality Chinese products, shaping a new chapter in international trade cooperation.

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