As the global trade landscape continues to reel from rising tariffs, tightening regulations, and geopolitical chess matches—particularly between the US and China—one might expect caution in the air.
Yet in Guangzhou, the atmosphere is anything but quiet.
The 137th Canton Fair, set to run from April 15 to May 5, is already showing signs that China’s export engine isn’t slowing down.
In fact, according to data released this week by the Ministry of Commerce, things are gearing up to be bigger and bolder than ever.
Let’s break it down.
For the first time in history, the number of export exhibitors has surpassed 30,000, up nearly 900 companies from the previous edition.
And on the buyer side? Nearly 170,000 overseas buyers from 210 countries and regions have already pre-registered to attend.
Yes, even with the specter of tariffs still looming—and talks of supply chain 'de-risking' filling newsrooms—international interest in Chinese goods is booming.
Of those pre-registered buyers:
72% come from Belt and Road Initiative partner countries
27.4% from BRICS nations
15.4% from OECD countries
14.3% from the Middle East
10.5% from Europe and North America
Industries drawing the most attention include industrial manufacturing, electronics and home appliances, lighting and electrical, fashion, and construction and furniture.
Also notable is the participation of 223 companies from the world’s top 250 global retailers—a 9.9% increase over last year.
The confirmed list of organized international trade groups now stands at 124, including heavyweights like:
The Canada China Business Council
The London Chamber of Commerce
Victoria Building Association of Australia
The Istanbul Chamber of Commerce
The Zambia China Business Association
The Argentina China Chamber of Commerce
Meanwhile, the online platform of the Canton Fair will continue operating year-round, expanding its reach beyond the exhibition halls of Guangzhou.
What’s Next for Cross-Border Trade?
While these numbers are a cause for celebration, they also raise questions.
In an age of rising protectionism and trade recalibration, how sustainable is this level of engagement?
And as global brands navigate between decoupling and dual sourcing, can the Canton Fair remain the beating heart of East-meets-West commerce?
If the pre-show buzz is anything to go by, the answer—at least for now—appears to be yes.
As the world debates tariffs and trade policy, businesses are still shaking hands, placing orders, and boarding flights to Guangzhou.
Will this edition of the Canton Fair cement China’s role in the new global supply chain puzzle?
Let’s just say: all eyes will be on the show floor.
Follow our WeChat official account at ThatsGBA for the latest updates from the Canton Fair and beyond.
[Cover image by Billy Jiang/That's]
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