The 137th Canton Fair: Enhancing Trade Relations in Europe and Africa

In a significant move towards boosting international trade, the 137th Canton Fair is slated to commence on April 15, 2025, in Guangzhou, China. This prestigious trade event has recently completed a series of promotional activities across Europe and Africa, signifying its commitment to enhancing global business collaborations and economic partnerships.

As a key gateway for international trade and investment, the Canton Fair serves as a pivotal platform where exhibitors and buyers from around the world come together to explore business opportunities. The fair has been recognized for its consistent efforts to innovate and improve trade structures, exhibition themes, events, and services.

Recent Promotional Events

On March 5, 2025, the Canton Fair team organized a promotional conference in Vienna, Austria. During this event, Liu Xiaomin, Exhibition Director of the China Foreign Trade Centre Group, highlighted the ongoing optimization of the exhibitor and product offerings, alongside an expansion of trade promotion activities. The goal is to create a seamless and more practical exhibition experience for all participants.

Earlier, on March 3, a similar session took place in Budapest, Hungary, attracting over 110 local representatives who were keen to learn about the Canton Fair's offerings. On February 27, more than 60 representatives gathered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where the team engaged with local businesses to discuss their procurement needs and encourage participation in upcoming matchmaking activities.

The promotional efforts also reached Africa from February 24 to March 4, discerning the unique market requirements of countries like Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Kenya. In Nairobi, Xu Jiansheng, Operation Director of the China Foreign Trade Centre Group, emphasized China's status as Kenya's largest trading partner and import source, promising to showcase new products, competitive pricing, and excellent service at the forthcoming fair.

Promoting Trade in Africa

The Lagos promotional conference held on February 24 witnessed an enthusiastic turnout of over 180 participants, including local businesses and media representatives. Attendees engaged in discussions on the benefits of the Canton Fair, while the team explored the vibrant technology and electronics market at Computer Village, Ikeja, and major retail chains such as ShopRite.

In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the team collaborated with local trade ministries and industry associations, organizing a seminar to discuss the demands of the Ethiopian market and foster participation in the Canton Fair. A partnership agreement was signed with a local economic association to further promote this venture.

The Canton Fair App

With an eye towards modernization, the Canton Fair has also introduced a dedicated app, streamlining the process for global buyers seeking to engage with exhibitors and resources efficiently. The app is designed to enhance the user experience, providing easy access to fair services and information.

The 137th Canton Fair aims to significantly contribute to the revitalization of trade between China, Europe, and Africa, fostering collaborations that are vital in today’s interconnected economy. From April 15 to May 5, manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers will converge in Guangzhou, embarking on opportunities that can define the future of international commerce.

To download the Canton Fair App and find more information, prospective participants can visit Canton Fair App. With a commitment to upgrading trade relations, this year’s fair promises to be an extraordinary platform for economic growth and partnership across the globe.