#China #Guangzhou #Canton Fair #Trade Fair #China Import

The 137th Canton Fair: A Record Success

The 137th China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, wrapped up successfully on May 5, 2025. This event not only attracted a record number of international attendees but also marked a significant increase in planned export transactions. With 288,938 foreign buyers hailing from 219 different countries and regions, the fair experienced a remarkable 17.3% rise compared to the previous edition.

Record-Setting Attendance and Export Intentions

The fair generated a staggering $25.44 billion in intended export deals, reflecting a 3% increase. According to Zhou Shanqing, the deputy general manager of the China Foreign Trade Centre, emerging markets continue to drive this success. Notably, countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative contributed significantly, with 187,450 attendees from these regions, a robust 17.4% increase that constituted 64.9% of total visitors.

Participants from BRICS countries also experienced a notable rise, with 72,417 buyers representing a 24.1% increase. Additionally, 64,808 attendees came from RCEP member countries, marking a 6.9% growth. The presence of 140 economic associations further highlighted the fair's expanding reach, with a notable increase of 17.6% in participation from various business organizations.

Focus on Advanced Technologies and Sustainability

An exciting feature of this year’s event was the high number of multinational procurement companies joining, with participation reaching an all-time high of 376 firms. As part of a growing trend, the fair showcased groundbreaking products that emphasized cutting-edge technology and sustainable innovations. Over 4.55 million products were on display, including 1.02 million new items, 880,000 environmentally friendly products, and 320,000 smart products. A standout exhibit was the Service Robots Zone, which featured over 500 types of robots from 46 leading Chinese manufacturers.

International Pavilion Success

The International Pavilion also thrived, hosting 736 companies from 50 countries, with 67% hailing from Belt and Road Initiative nations. Exhibitors from Russia, Thailand, and Turkey expressed intentions for collaboration with numerous Chinese buyers, suggesting that their products will swiftly enter the Chinese market. The fair included a total of 1,206 trade promotion activities, such as 438 events under the new Canton Fair collection and 734 “Trade Bridge” matchmaking sessions, addressing current trends in international commerce.

Looking Ahead

The success of the 137th Canton Fair reinforces its status as a pivotal event in the global trading landscape. As the world continues to navigate post-pandemic recovery, trade fairs like this one play an essential role in fostering international relationships and showcasing innovative products. The 138th Canton Fair is set to take place from October 15 to November 4, 2025, in Guangzhou, promising another round of opportunities for industry professionals worldwide. This annual fair not only serves as a platform for export opportunities but also highlights China's commitment to international trade and collaboration.