On October 15, 2026, the 140th China Import and Export Fair, widely known as the Canton Fair, kicked off in Guangzhou in grand style. Buyers from across the globe converged on China's oldest and largest comprehensive international trade event to celebrate the Fair's 70th anniversary. Serving as the "barometer" and "bellwether" of China's foreign trade, this edition of the Canton Fair not only showcases the formidable strength of China's manufacturing sector but also sends a clear signal to the world of the country's unwavering commitment to high-standard opening-up.
The first phase of the Fair, held from October 15 to 19, centers on advanced manufacturing and industrial innovation. Boasting a massive scale, the event spans a total exhibition area of 520,000 square meters and features 25,000 booths, attracting more than 12,000 premium exhibitors from around the globe. This impressive scale and stellar exhibitor lineup underscore the high recognition and strong confidence that global businesses have in the Chinese market and its supply chains.
In terms of layout, the Fair has meticulously planned 19 specialized exhibition zones, comprehensively covering key sectors within the global industrial chain. The first phase highlights cutting-edge fields such as consumer electronics, industrial automation, new energy vehicles, and smart mobility. The industrial automation zone features a dazzling array of intelligent robots, high-precision CNC machine tools, and IoT solutions, offering a glimpse into the factories of the future. Meanwhile, the new energy vehicle and smart mobility zone has drawn crowds of overseas buyers to experience multiple models equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems and ultra-long ranges. These sectors are not only at the forefront of global technological competition but also serve as the core driving forces behind the green transition and intelligent upgrading of the global economy. By showcasing products and solutions leveraging these cutting-edge technologies, the Canton Fair provides global buyers with an exceptional one-stop platform for connecting with high-end manufacturing resources.
Notably, this edition of the Canton Fair has achieved a significant breakthrough in exhibitor quality. Of the more than 12,000 exhibitors, over 11,000 are recognized as high-tech enterprises, specialized and innovative "Little Giant" enterprises, or industry leaders, representing an exceptionally high proportion. This striking figure vividly reflects the acceleration of China's manufacturing sector in its transition towards higher value-added and more technologically advanced production. Numerous companies have unveiled their latest independently developed technologies, intelligent equipment, and green, low-carbon products, comprehensively demonstrating the innovative capacity and robust strength of China's advanced manufacturing industry.
On the opening day, the atmosphere both inside and outside the exhibition halls was electric, with buyers from around the world flocking to the event. From the awe-inspiring displays in the large machinery and equipment zone to the exquisite designs in the consumer electronics section, the exhibits left overseas buyers thoroughly dazzled. Many international buyers noted that the Canton Fair is not merely a channel for sourcing premium suppliers, but also a vital window for gaining insights into global technological trends across industries. China Daily reporter Parker Zheng was on site to document this historic moment, capturing a series of stunning photographs that vividly highlight the dynamic exchanges and collaborative development between Chinese and international business delegates.
Standing at the new starting point of its 70th anniversary, the 140th Canton Fair is more than just a showcase of products; it is a prime opportunity for the deep integration of global industrial and supply chains. By focusing on advanced manufacturing and industrial innovation, the Canton Fair will continue to leverage its role as a major international platform, helping global businesses share in China's development opportunities and injecting robust new momentum into global trade prosperity and economic growth.