The 139th Canton Fair in Guangzhou is surpassing expectations right out of the gate. According to the latest figures from the China Foreign Trade Centre, the opening phases welcomed about 245,000 buyers and traders from 219 nations and territories by late afternoon on April 27—a 2.2% rise from last year’s equivalent timeframe.
Notably, 140 trade organizations formed delegations to participate, while 344 leading firms from key markets including America, Mexico, Britain, Germany, and Japan joined in. Participation from these elite players marked a 4.9% uptick, highlighting renewed confidence in cross-border deals.
The second phase zeroed in on premium home furnishings and decor, utilizing a massive 515,000 square meters of space packed with 25,000 booths. From artisanal crafts to modern appliances, the variety catered to diverse global tastes.
All eyes now turn to the third phase, running May 1 through 5. This segment will feature toys, infant and maternity items, apparel fabrics, office supplies, and wellness-recreation products. With setups complete, the fair is poised to break more records.
In a post-pandemic recovery landscape, these numbers reflect stabilizing trade dynamics and China’s strategic pivot toward high-value exports. Industry watchers predict billions in deals sealed over the coming days.