The 138th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) opened Oct. 15 in Guangzhou, setting new records in both scale and participation. Covering a total exhibition area of 1.55 million square meters, the fair features 74,600 booths and more than 32,000 exhibitors — including about 3,600 making their debut.
According to Wang Zhihua, director-general of the Department of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Commerce, this year's fair introduces its first-ever Smart Healthcare Zone, highlighting China's advancements in medical technology and innovation. He noted that the global market for smart medical equipment is expanding rapidly, and China's digital healthcare sector is also growing steadily with enormous potential. The new zone includes 140 booths from 47 leading enterprises, providing a platform for companies to showcase products, promote brands, and explore cooperation in the global smart healthcare market.
Zhu Yong, director of the China Foreign Trade Center, noted that the fair has welcomed 18 new global partners, including the Federation Chambers of Foreign Trade of Brazil, bringing the total to 227 across 110 countries and regions. The number of professional buyers and major procurement firms attending is expected to exceed that of the previous session.
Wei Min, head of the Guangzhou Municipal Commerce Bureau, said the fair coincides with the city's hosting of the 15th National Games, marking a vibrant season for Guangzhou. The city will offer a "festival of consumption" blending its centuries-old commercial heritage with modern urban vitality through shopping, gastronomy, and cultural tourism. The 2025 Guangzhou International Shopping Festival will feature over 3,000 events across all 11 districts, along with special dining vouchers, inviting global visitors to savor Guangzhou's authentic flavors and welcoming spirit.