China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair): Overview
The China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, is China’s oldest, largest, and most influential international trade event. Established in 1957, it serves as a critical platform for global trade, innovation, and economic cooperation. Below is a detailed breakdown of its key aspects:
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1. Basic Information
- Frequency & Dates: Held biannually in spring (April) and autumn (October), each session spans three phases over 15 days.
- Example: The 137th session (2025) will run from April 15–May 5
- Location: Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, primarily at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Pazhou District
- Organizers: Co-hosted by China’s Ministry of Commerce and Guangdong Provincial Government, organized by the China Foreign Trade Centre
2. Exhibition Scope
- Product Categories:
- Phase 1: Advanced manufacturing (e.g., industrial automation, EVs, smart home appliances).
- Phase 2: Home furnishings (e.g., ceramics, furniture, building materials).
- Phase 3: Consumer goods (e.g., textiles, toys, cosmetics)
- Special Zones: Includes a Service Robot Pavilion (debuted in 2025) and an International Pavilion with over 18,000 overseas exhibitors from 110+ countries
3. Key Features
- Hybrid Format: Combines offline exhibitions with a robust online platform for global sourcing, including:
- 3D Virtual Showrooms and real-time communication tools.
- Pre-registration terminals at airports and railway stations for international buyers
- Innovation Focus: Showcases cutting-edge technologies (e.g., AI, green energy) and supports design collaborations through the Product Design and Trade Promotion Center (PDC)
4. Economic Impact
- Trade Volume: Generated $30.16 billion in export turnover during the 122nd session (2020)
- Global Reach: Attracts buyers from 210+ countries/regions, with “Belt and Road” countries accounting for 60% of international attendees
- Industry Benchmark: Acts as a “barometer” for China’s foreign trade, reflecting trends like green manufacturing and smart home tech
5. Participation Statistics
- Exhibitors: Over 31,000 enterprises (97% exporters) in the 137th session, including Huawei, BYD, and SMEs
- Buyers: Approximately 250,000 international buyers attend annually, with 246,000 offline participants in the 135th session (2024)
6. Strategic Role
- Policy Alignment: Promotes China’s “dual circulation” strategy and high-quality development.
- IP Protection: Implements a comprehensive IP dispute resolution mechanism, earning trust from global brands like Dyson and Nike
Why Attend?
- For Exporters: Access to 210+ markets and flexible MOQs (500–50,000 units).
- For Buyers: Source competitive products, attend B2B matchmaking sessions, and leverage AI-driven procurement tools.
For more details, visit the official Canton Fair Portal (www.cantonfair.org.cn)
- Frequency & Dates: Held biannually in spring (April) and autumn (October), each session spans three phases over 15 days.
Post time: Apr-13-2025
