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History of Canton Fair from 1957 to 2025 – A Complete Guide

History of Canton Fair from 1957 to 2025

Introduction:

When it comes to global trade exhibitions, the Canton Fair — officially called the China Import and Export Fair — is a name that truly stands apart. More than just an ordinary trade event, the Canton Fair represents China’s remarkable transformation from a recovering post-war nation to one of the world’s leading hubs for manufacturing and international trade.

As the Canton Fair prepares for its 137th session in 2025, it’s the perfect time to look back and explore how this extraordinary event evolved from a small regional fair to the largest and most influential trade platform in the world.

The Beginning of Canton Fair in 1957: A Strategic Move Towards Global Trade

The story of the Canton Fair began in the spring of 1957 in Guangzhou, a major city in China’s southern Guangdong Province. At that time, China was facing several economic challenges. The country had just emerged from the effects of World War II and was largely isolated from international trade due to political conditions.

To overcome these obstacles, the Chinese government introduced it with a clear vision — to connect with international buyers and promote Chinese products worldwide.

Photo showing Jiefang trucks, China’s first domestic truck brand, at the 1st China Import and Export Fair as known as Canton Fair held in 1957 in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province in South China.

Highlights of the First Canton Fair:

  • Held in Spring 1957 in Guangzhou.
  • Around 1,000 Chinese companies participated as exhibitors.
  • Attracted only a few hundred international buyers, mainly from Asia and Eastern Europe.
  • Main focus: Promote “Made in China” products to generate foreign exchange.
Photo showing the night view outside the venue of the 2nd China Import and Export Fair, held in October 1957 in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province in South China.

The Transformation Era (1980s – 1990s): Opening Up and Reform Changed Everything

China’s economic reform and opening-up policy initiated by Deng Xiaoping in the late 1970s was a turning point for the Canton Fair.

In photo, Iranian buyers examine Chinese porcelain at the 44th China Import and Export Fair, held in 1978 in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province in South China.

Key Developments during the 1980s-1990s:

  1. Participation increased dramatically, with exhibitors growing from state-owned companies to private enterprises and joint ventures.
  2. Buyers from more than 100 countries started attending the fair by the mid-1990s.
  3. New product categories emerged, expanding beyond traditional light industry goods to include electronics, textiles, heavy machinery, and more.
  4. Introduction of multiple phases in the fair to accommodate a broader range of industries and products.
In archival photo shows staff members of Chinese home appliance brand Galanz at the 85th China Import and Export Fair , held in 1999 in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province in South China.

The 2000s: A Digital Leap & Global Recognition

As the world stepped into a new millennium, the Canton Fair experienced a major transformation. The 2000s marked a period of modernization, global integration, and digital innovation for the fair. Two key events played a crucial role in shaping this new era:

Two Game-Changing Events:

1. China’s Membership in the WTO – 2001:

China officially joined the WTO in December 2001—a decision that had a massive impact on the country’s trade relationships and economic policies. This historic step opened China’s doors even wider to the global market, and the Canton Fair naturally became a major platform to reflect this shift.

Here’s how this changed the Canton Fair:

a. Increased Global Participation

b. Improved Trade Environment

c. Growth in Export Opportunities

2.Adoption of Digital Technology:

The 2000s weren’t just about global outreach—they were also about digital transformation. The Canton Fair embraced the digital age with several key upgrades:

a) Launch of the Official Website

The Canton Fair launched its official website to improve communication, streamline registration, and make information easily accessible to buyers and exhibitors worldwide.

  • Benefits:
    • Visitors could now register online, browse exhibitor lists, and plan their visits in advance.
    • Exhibitors had a platform to showcase their products even before the fair began.
    • It marked the beginning of a more efficient and user-friendly experience for all attendees.
b) Expansion of the Fair Complex

To accommodate the rising number of international visitors and exhibitors, the Canton Fair significantly expanded its exhibition space. The fair complex in Pazhou, Guangzhou, was modernized with state-of-the-art infrastructure.

  • Why it mattered:
    • More exhibitors meant more variety and better opportunities for trade.
    • The new halls allowed better categorization of products, making it easier for buyers to navigate the fair.
c) Inclusion of International Exhibitors

Another game-changing shift was the decision to open the fair to foreign companies as exhibitors, not just buyers.

  • Impact:
    • It transformed the Canton Fair from a national export platform into a truly international trade fair.
    • Foreign businesses were now showcasing their own products, creating two-way trade opportunities.
    • This fostered more collaboration, knowledge exchange, and global partnerships.

    The 2010s: Smart Technology, Sustainability, and Enhanced Buyer Experience

    The photo shows visitors attending the 125th China Import and Export Fair also known as Canton Fair on April 15, 2019, in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province in South China.

    The Canton Fair began integrating smart technology and eco-friendly practices to meet changing global demands.

    Key Innovations Introduced:

    • Zones for smart products and high-tech innovations.
    • Green initiatives like eco-friendly booths and digital ticketing.
    • Mobile apps and AI-powered customer service.

    The Pandemic Era (2020-2022): Going Fully Digital for Global Access

    The Canton Fair moved completely online due to COVID-19, breaking physical barriers and enabling global participation like never before.

    Features of the Online Canton Fair:

    • Virtual booths operating 24/7.
    • Real-time product demonstrations.
    • AI-based supplier matching system.
    • Online contract signing and sourcing tools.

    Canton Fair 2025: What to Expect from the Future of Global Trade

    Key Highlights:

    • Hybrid Format – Combine physical exhibitions with virtual participation.
    • AI & IoT Focus – Smart home devices and industrial automation sectors.
    • Sustainable Solutions – Green energy, ethical sourcing, and eco-friendly products.
    • Participation from over 220 countries and regions.

    Conclusion: Why the Canton Fair is More Than Just a Trade Show

    The evolution of the Canton Fair from a small export event in 1957 to the world’s largest trade exhibition in 2025 mirrors China’s remarkable journey in global trade and economic development.

    Today, it’s not just a marketplace — it’s a symbol of innovation, international collaboration, and sustainable growth.

    Whether you are a manufacturer, a buyer, a business owner, or a trade enthusiast, participating in the Canton Fair 2025 is your golden opportunity to be part of this dynamic global business network.

    For official updates and registration, visit the Canton Fair Official Website.

    Final Note: Get ready to explore endless business opportunities, innovative products, and valuable partnerships at the Canton Fair 2025 — your gateway to the future of global trade!