A delegation of international buyers attending the 138th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) in south China's Guangzhou City embarked on an immersive cultural and business tour of the historic Yuexiu District on Sunday, deepening their understanding of the city while exploring potential commercial partnerships.
The delegation includes representatives from Australia, Pakistan, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.
Their visit began at the Wuxian Guan (Temple of the Five Immortals), a centuries-old site steeped in local legend and historical significance. Delegates also toured key heritage landmarks such as The First Tower of Lingnan and the Poshan Ancient Ferry, tracing the origins of Guangzhou, one of China's oldest trading ports and a key node on the Maritime Silk Road.
The group participated in a hands-on experience of the Lingnan Guqin, a traditional Chinese musical art form recognized as intangible cultural heritage, offering them a window into the richness of Cantonese culture.
"I hope we'll have the opportunity to bring Guangzhou's intangible cultural heritage and its broader cultural development achievements to Australia," said Wang Guozhong, president of the Australian Guangdong Chamber of Commerce.
"I come from Sydney, Australia. And I'd like to thank you very much for this opportunity to come to the [Wuxian] temple today, and to learn more about your culture. I think it's fantastic," said Paul Mcintyre, an advisor to the Australian Center for China Global Trading, speaking to a reporter.
Following the cultural segment, the delegation visited the Guangzhou Electronic Appliances Chamber of Commerce, where they toured a showcase hall featuring cutting-edge semiconductor and electronic products. The venue serves as a one-stop sourcing hub, bringing together many manufacturers and suppliers under one roof.
"Maybe you can choose, you can find the best supplier here. And it's a good gathering -- all the items you can find here for the electric (industry), and I think it's a good idea," said an Iranian buyer.
"The visit today has been quite pivotal in bridging a relationship between understanding more about Guangzhou," said a UAE purchaser.
Chamber President Zeng Bin highlighted the mutual benefits of such exchanges.
"Hosting international guests like this is also a way for our members to 'go global'. Many of our member enterprises have already conducted cooperation with partners in Southeast Asia and neighboring countries," said Zeng.
Established in 1957, the Canton Fair is held twice a year. It is the longest-running of several comprehensive international trade events in China, and has been hailed as the barometer of China's foreign trade.
The first phase of the 138th Canton Fair already concluded on Sunday, with a record 157,000 overseas buyers attending in person.
The second phase is scheduled to run from Oct 23 to 27, followed by the third phase from Oct 31 to Nov. 4.
Canton Fair buyers seek business opportunities through cultural, tech engagement
