Virtual fair has host of convenient features

The ongoing 128th China Import and Export Fair moved online due to the COVID-19 pandemic this year. But this is proving to be a convenient and effective way to connect traders in countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, which are now priority markets for many Chinese international trading companies. 

The virtual event, also known as the cloud Canton Fair, enables participating companies to keep abreast of the needs of global customers amid a global health crisis and aids the process of negotiation and deal making. 

Many Chinese companies in foreign trade, who have turned to online marketing since the outbreak of COVID-19, find the fair useful. 

“We are able to display our qualifications, product information and our team in a versatile way through livestreaming and interact with customers in real time,” said Fan Zhenzhen, general manager of Pengcheng Import and Export based in Yiwu, Zhejiang province.

The manufacturer of manual and electrical tools has been exploring markets in countries and regions involved in the BRI. “We first made a list of our most important clients from all across the world and then mapped out a marketing plan, taking into account the COVID-19 situation in the countries where our clients are located and their best-selling products,” Fan said. 

Pengcheng also markets its products through business-to-business websites, WeChat groups for clients and its official WeChat account. It communicates to potential buyers how well its goods have been selling, according to Fan. 

Thanks to its online marketing efforts, the company has exported its products to Cambodia, Indonesia, South Korea and other countries.