On November 4, the 138th Canton Fair successfully concluded, attracting over 310,000 overseas buyers from 223 countries and regions, an increase of 7.5% compared to the previous edition, reaching a new all-time high.
This edition set multiple historical records, including the number of overseas buyers and the scale of new, smart, and green products. Notably, buyers from countries along the Belt and Road totaled 214,000, a rise of 9.4%, accounting for 69% of the total. Significant growth was observed among buyers from the European Union, the Middle East, the United States, and Brazil, with increases of 32.7%, 13.9%, 14%, and 33.2% respectively.
This edition of the Fair was attended by 158 business delegations, up 12%. Among the 550 buyer delegations, 406 were organized by leading global enterprises such as Target (USA), Carrefour (France), and Nitori (Japan), representing a 7.9% growth.
The bustling activity in the halls reflected significant order growth. This Fair witnesses intended export transactions of $25.65 billion, maintaining a growth momentum. Transactions with countries along the Belt and Road accounted for over sixty percent, while traditional market transactions remained stable.
This Canton Fair also served as a showcase of new quality productive forces. Among the 4.6 million exhibited items, new products, green products, and products with independent intellectual property accounted for 23.3%, 23.5%, and 23.9% respectively. AI empowerment, innovative manufacturing, green and low-carbon solutions, and high-end customization were key themes throughout all three phases.
Embodied robots, brain-computer interface devices, zero-plastic home products, bio-based materials, AI-powered rehabilitation equipment, and 3D printing were the major attractions in respective phases.
The Fair also provided an efficient, digitally empowered matchmaking experience. Digital-intelligent integration enhanced the participation experience from registration and exhibition touring to negotiations and matchmaking. For instance, QR code-based credentials were used for the first time, enabling rapid credential production in 30 seconds. A 3,000-square-meter domestic sales promotion zone for high-quality export products attracted 143 leading domestic buyers and over 500 exhibiting enterprises for matchmaking activities.
Next, the 139th Canton Fair is scheduled to be held in Guangzhou from April 15 to May 5, 2026. Global exhibitors and buyers are sincerely invited to gather once again for this springtime appointment filled with business opportunities.
Reporter | Guo Chuhua
Photo | Guo Chuhua
Editor | Hu Nan, Shen He
