The 136th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) is set to run from October 15 to November 4, 2024, in Guangzhou, China, breaking records with more exhibitors, activities, and innovative features. The event will be spread over three phases, with both onsite and online exhibitions, underscoring its pivotal role in promoting high-quality development and expanding China's global trade footprint.
Unprecedented Exhibitor Turnout and Expanded Exhibition Space
This year's Canton Fair will occupy a massive 1.55 million square meters of exhibition space, hosting approximately 74,000 booths spread across 55 exhibition sections. Over 30,000 companies are set to participate in the onsite exhibition, marking an increase of nearly 800 exhibitors from the previous session. Notably, 4,600 of these companies will be first-time exhibitors, reflecting the fair's growing international appeal.
The event will feature 29,400 export companies from various sectors, offering buyers a diverse range of products and services. First-time exhibitors will contribute fresh innovations, making this year’s fair one of the most dynamic yet.
Digital Innovations Transform the Canton Fair Experience
Continuing its emphasis on digital transformation, the Canton Fair will introduce 18 new online features designed to enhance the virtual exhibition experience. This includes the use of virtual avatars and the Canton Fair App, offering attendees an interactive and user-friendly way to explore the vast array of products. The online exhibition will see a significant expansion, with around 48,000 enterprises showcasing approximately 3.75 million products. This marks a 60% increase in participating companies and a 50% increase in products compared to the last session, making it easier for global buyers to engage with Chinese manufacturers.
Innovative features such as live streaming and dedicated product launches will further enable brands to reach international markets, creating more opportunities for seamless digital trade.
Over 750 Trade Events to Foster Global Collaboration
A major highlight of the 136th Canton Fair is the more than 750 trade promotion events that will take place, designed to help businesses gain valuable insights into global market trends and industry developments. These activities aim to foster precise trade collaborations that meet the specific needs of businesses.
Additionally, the fair will collaborate with global entities and leading multinational corporations to host over 250 "Trade Bridge" matchmaking events across 65 countries, including the United States, France, Brazil, Indonesia, Kenya, and Australia. Around 400 Canton Fair New Collection Events will also take place across 13 industries, such as industrial manufacturing, electronics, home appliances, vehicles, and fashion, showcasing the latest innovations in these sectors.
Global Engagement and Buyer Participation
Chu Shijia, Secretary General of the Canton Fair and Director General of the China Foreign Trade Centre, revealed that as of October 9, over 125,000 overseas buyers had pre-registered for the event. Among them, 223 top global retailers have confirmed their participation, a 24% increase compared to the same period last year. This strong turnout highlights the continued trust of the global business community in Chinese products and the vital role the Canton Fair plays in connecting Chinese manufacturers with international markets.
Canton Fair 2024 Set to Drive Global Trade
The 136th Canton Fair is poised to be a monumental event, bridging Chinese enterprises with global buyers through a combination of in-person and virtual interactions. With record-breaking exhibitor participation, expanded digital functionalities, and over 750 trade events, the fair will continue to strengthen Sino-foreign trade and drive economic cooperation on a global scale.