#China #Guangzhou #Global Trade #Canton Fair

The 140th Canton Fair Concludes with Record Foreign Attendance

The 140th China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, wrapped up in Guangzhou on November 4, 2026. This year's event has set a remarkable record, attracting 352,000 foreign buyers from 219 countries and regions, marking a significant increase of 12.2% compared to the previous edition. The fair reported a staggering export value intention of $26.75 billion, reflective of the strong global demand for Chinese products and the interest in forging partnerships across the supply chain.

Increasing Participation from Key Markets

The increase in international buyers was particularly notable from critical markets, with participation from the European Union rising by 38.2%, the United States by 22.2%, and partner countries of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) increasing by 16.6%. Over 75% of the foreign attendees were professional buyers, and more than 500 prominent international sourcing companies were involved in the event.

Recognized as a vital indicator of international trade activity, the fair featured over 32,000 exhibitors showcasing approximately 4.88 million products from a wide array of sectors. Of these exhibitors, nearly 20% are investing overseas, while 36.5% provide comprehensive product and service solutions. Various promotional initiatives created strong synergies at the fair, including the inaugural Buyer Alliance, which engaged 160,000 buyers in interactive member activities and more than 700 new product launch events, alongside seven thematic forums attended by 615,000 participants, both in-person and virtually.

Emphasizing Intelligent and Eco-friendly Innovation

Innovation was a key theme throughout the exhibition. There was an 8% increase in new products and a remarkable 14.1% rise in AI-based solutions. New thematic exhibition zones were introduced, focusing on new product launches, smart health, and design innovation, effectively accelerating the implementation of AI visualization.

Foreign buyers also noted the evolution of China's manufacturing landscape, with 43.1% of exhibitors adopting eco-friendly production practices. Products with environmental features comprised 26% of the items showcased, both figures representing historic highs. Among the 18 specialized zones dedicated to emerging industries, six concentrated on new energy sectors such as photovoltaic and wind energy, exemplifying a long-term commitment to sustainable growth.

Looking Ahead to Future Editions of the Canton Fair

The 141st Canton Fair is scheduled to take place in Guangzhou from April 15 to May 5, 2027, solidifying its position as one of the largest global platforms for international trade and business cooperation. To enhance attendance at this esteemed event, interested parties are encouraged to pre-register through the fair's official website.

The conclusion of the 140th Canton Fair not only highlights the confidence in global trade but also underscores the critical role China plays in the international supply chain, fostering innovation and collaboration across borders.