Canton Fair Sets New Overseas Attendance Record Amid US Tariff Tensions

The 137th China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, concluded on May 5, 2025, in Guangzhou, marking a significant milestone with a record-breaking 288,938 overseas attendees. This figure represents a 17.3% increase from the previous year, with 59% of the visitors attending for the first time.

Despite escalating trade tensions and the imposition of a 145% tariff on Chinese goods by the United States, the fair witnessed a 3% year-on-year increase in transaction volume, totaling US$25.44 billion. Notably, over 64.9% of foreign visitors hailed from countries participating in China's Belt and Road Initiative, contributing to more than 60% of the total transaction volume.

The fair's success underscores China's resilience in the face of global trade challenges and its commitment to expanding international partnerships. While the US market showed reduced participation, the surge in attendees from emerging markets highlights a strategic pivot towards diversified global engagement.

Author: He Huifeng and Sylvia Ma
Original Source Link: South China Morning Post

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