Deep roots grounded in openness, cooperation

By Shen Guanhong 

The China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, is China’s oldest foreign trading event. Launched in 1957, it is held every spring and autumn in Guangzhou, capital of South China’s Guangdong province. 

Adjacent to Hong Kong and Macao, Guangdong boasts unique advantages in foreign trade. 

In 1956, local officials suggested holding a national export exhibition in Guangzhou. Their advice received much attention. Approved by the State Council, the China Export Exhibition was held in Guangzhou on Nov 10, 1956. 

The two-month event achieved a great success with 2,736 attendees from 37 countries and regions. Its total turnover amounted to $53.80 million. This attempt brought rewarding experience to authorities, paving the way for the establishment of the Canton Fair. 

In March 1957, the then Ministry of Foreign Trade issued the approval of the China Export Fair, noting that the event would be co-hosted by the Guangdong government and the ministry. That year, the fair featured five exhibition halls and more than 10,000 products. With 1,223 buyers from 19 countries and regions, the monthlong event reached a turnover of $17.54 million. 

To support trade balance, the Canton Fair began setting up exhibition areas for imported goods during the 101st session in April 2007, when the China Export Fair was officially renamed China Import and Export Fair.