Canton Fair to offer a comprehensive platform for opening-up and trade

Similar to its previous two sessions last year, the 129th China Import and Export Fair, known internationally as Canton Fair, will be held online from April 15-24. That’s according to Xu Bing, the spokesman for the event and deputy chief of China Foreign Trade Center, who announced the news during a press conference on Wednesday. 

Xu said the decision was made according to requirements for the prevention and control of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is still rampant throughout the world. It was also approved by the State Council. 

The official said 2021 is a year with historic significance, as it marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, the beginning of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) and the first year for the comprehensive construction of a socialist modern country. 

He said organizers of the event will adhere to the guidelines proposed by central authorities, especially General Secretary Xi Jinping’s Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, to build the event into a comprehensive platform for opening-up, boosting international trade and promoting a dual-circulation development pattern that highlights both domestic and international markets. 

Xu said the 129th Canton Fair will consist of 50 exhibition areas to display commodities in 16 major categories. Nearly 26,000 exhibiting companies will display their products at about 60,000 booths. 

The official said organizers have made solid preparations in improving its online platforms and systems, aiming to offer better experience on cloud platforms for participating enterprises. 

Intellectual property right protection will continue to be a highlight at this Canton Fair session to safeguard the interests of enterprises. 

 At the news conference, Xu answered questions from major national media outlets including People’s Daily, Xinhua News Agency, CCTV and CGTN, on issues such as innovations in international trade, and Canton Fair’s role in supporting China’s dual-circulation development and rural revitalization.