138th Canton Fair On Track for Record-Breaking Turnout, Foreign Buyers Return in Force
The 138th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) is underway in Guangzhou, marking a major milestone for global trade and the full return of in-person sourcing in China. Midway through its run, official updates and media reports point to a powerful resurgence in international participation, driven by returning overseas buyers and heightened interest in China’s advanced manufacturing, green tech, and AI-enabled solutions.
As one of Asia’s most influential trade events, the Canton Fair links global buyers with China’s evolving industries—from smart manufacturing and electric mobility to fashion, textiles, and consumer electronics. Learn more: https://www.zhujianger.com/canton-fair.
Strong Mid-Session Metrics Point to a Landmark Event
International participation has rebounded at scale across the Pazhou Complex.
Record-Breaking Pace
Xinhua reports overseas buyer attendance surged 53.6% vs. the 135th session (Spring 2023) and 56.4% vs. the 134th session (Autumn 2022). Source: https://www.news.cn/english/2023-10-21/c_1129925674.htm.
Unprecedented Global Reach
CGTN notes registered buyers from 210+ countries/regions, with strong delegations from Belt and Road nations and key markets across Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Source: https://news.cgtn.com/news/2023-10-20/138th-Canton-Fair-sees-robust-overseas-participation-1o8yUvjzY7e/index.html.
Foreign Buyers Engage with “Innovated in China”
Buyers are prioritizing technology-driven, sustainable, high-value products—signalling a shift from “Made in China” to “Innovated in China.”
High-Quality Engagement
Deeper technical discussions and on-site orders reflect meaningful purchasing intent, per China Daily. Source: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202310/21/WS6512a4c6a31090682a5e7a7c.html.
Spotlight on Green Tech & AI
Crowded zones include new energy vehicles, lithium batteries, and solar products—plus smart robots and AI-powered manufacturing—highlighting the demand for cleaner, more efficient technologies.
A Seamless Hybrid Experience for Global Business
Continuous Digital Access
Official site: https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US — product showcases, virtual meetings, and messaging.
Year-Round Connectivity
Online profiles extend sourcing beyond show dates, turning the fair into a continuous B2B channel.
The Canton Fair’s Expanding Global Impact
Since 1957, the fair has mirrored China’s evolution from scale to innovation—across smart home appliances, electric mobility, wearables, and intelligent textiles. The Pazhou Complex provides world-class facilities with easy access to hotels, dining, and transport across the city. See the Guangzhou City Guide.
Planning Your Visit: Essential Zhujianger Guides
Canton Fair – Main Page
Dates, zones, registration, and what to expect on site.
China Business Visa Guide
Step-by-step M/F visa process, documents, and timing.
Transit Without Visa (TWOV)
Eligibility, airports, layover rules, and stay limits.
Where to Stay in Guangzhou
Hotels near Pazhou with booking links and district filters.
Guangzhou City Guide
Transport, food, bars, shopping, neighborhoods, essentials.
Mid-Fair Outlook: A Promising Trajectory
Momentum suggests the 138th Canton Fair will stand as a landmark—record attendance, deeper buyer engagement, and a hybrid model expanding global reach.
Sources
- Xinhua – https://www.news.cn/english/2023-10-21/c_1129925674.htm
- CGTN – https://news.cgtn.com/news/2023-10-20/138th-Canton-Fair-sees-robust-overseas-participation-1o8yUvjzY7e/index.html
- China Daily – https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202310/21/WS6512a4c6a31090682a5e7a7c.html
- Official Site – https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US
