Canton Fair Enhances Global Trade with New Digital Innovations and Apps

The 137th China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, marked a significant milestone by successfully closing its doors on May 5, 2025. This year’s event not only highlighted the Fair’s commitment to creating a continuous trade environment but also achieved record attendance figures, signaling a strong rebound in international business engagements.

A remarkable aspect of this year’s edition was the attendance of over 280,000 overseas buyers from 219 countries, reflecting a 17.3% increase compared to the previous session. Additionally, more than half a million online participants took part, with 527,185 logging in from 229 nations. The impressive attendance figures demonstrated the changing dynamics of global trade, where digital platforms increasingly play a pivotal role in fostering international connections.

The Rise of Digital Engagement

The Canton Fair has successfully transitioned into a year-round business ecosystem, effectively blending physical and virtual interactions. The event’s digital transformation is evident in the continuous innovation of its platform. The official online exhibition portal recorded an astonishing 4.37 million cumulative visits to exhibitor stores, serving as an essential resource for businesses looking to forge global relationships.

The exhibition's structure allows buyers and suppliers to initiate negotiations well before they arrive on-site and maintain contact after the event. This capability is a testament to the Fair's evolution, supporting dynamic trade interactions and enhancing opportunities for international trade.

Upgraded Mobile Applications for Streamlined Connectivity

In a significant upgrade, the Fair introduced two versions of its mobile application—one tailored for buyers and the other for suppliers. The buyer version streamlines the sourcing process by incorporating enhanced search engines, trade matchmaking features, and additional services. These services include functionalities like e-badge scanning, invitation letter requests, and translator bookings, all designed to elevate the buyer experience.

On the other hand, the supplier version is focused on facilitating real-time dialogues with buyers, offering tools such as reception aids, note-taking capabilities, and integrated matchmaking services. By mid-June, these applications had been downloaded over 350,000 times, showcasing the interest and requirement for such modern trade tools in the global market.

Continuous Trade Matchmaking and Engagement

Further igniting interest, the Fair organized numerous online industry-specific activities and matchmaking events that provided opportunities for greater interaction between global buyers and Chinese suppliers. These initiatives enhance the effectiveness of online engagements, making it easier for participants to find partners for their business ventures.

In essence, the Canton Fair is redefining its purpose beyond a traditional trade exhibition. With advancements in digital technology, improved app functionalities, and comprehensive online strategies, it cultivates ongoing trade matchmaking and seamless interactions between buyers and suppliers. This transformation illustrates how technology is redefining the scope and impact of trade shows, facilitating uninterrupted business growth even beyond the exhibition dates.

To explore the full capabilities of the Canton Fair’s new mobile app, interested parties can download it via Canton Fair App. The evolving landscape of the Canton Fair emphasizes the new trends in trade interactions, paving the way for innovative solutions that cater to the fast-paced demands of the global market.