The ongoing 139th China Import and Export Fair or Canton Fair in south China's Guangzhou has drawn a surge of international buyers, filling hotels and boosting visits to city landmarks such as the Canton Tower, a riverside skyscraper that ranks among China’s tallest.
The event runs from April 15 to May 5 across three phases. Its second phase, held on April 23-27, focuses on building materials, furniture, household goods and decorations.
Fresh off the Canton Fair floor, overseas buyers took to the Canton Tower’s 460-meter-high Ferris wheel to capture panoramic views of the city.
"I'm here with a group of 167 people. They are from 12 countries in South America. Not only do we do business, we do five days Canton Fair and then two days going around and seeing the city, the Chinese culture, the food," said Gisele, head of the purchasing group.
The Canton Tower is reimagining its tourism zone through the lens of trade and opening-up, introducing staff translation devices and immersive cultural performances to better serve international visitors.
"[We] have planned a Future Concert at the Canton Tower, featuring a performance where our cellists and violinists perform together with 'dexterous hand' robots. The repertoire, consisting of both Chinese and Western pieces, is very classic and appealing to visitors," said Chen Yanbin, marketing director of the management branch under Canton Tower Cultural Tourism Development Co., Ltd.
As of Sunday, search interest in Guangzhou as a travel destination has increased by 116 percent compared to the previous month. Attractions such as the iconic Canton Tower and the sightseeing cruise along the Pearl River have continued to gain popularity.
"I love the lights of the city. It was very, very great. I love the river with the ships. I didn't expect that this city was so modern. It's very futuristic," said Bolivian buyer Juan.
Driven by the surge of overseas visitors during the Canton Fair, consumption momentum across Guangzhou’s major shopping malls has risen significantly. Cosmetics, sportswear and home appliances have emerged as the top categories favored by international buyers.
To capitalize on this influx, a shopping mall has launched a "Guest Discount Month" dedicated to Canton Fair attendees. The initiative offers exclusive discounts to both domestic and international exhibitors and buyers upon presentation of their official fair badges.
"It's a German brand, but this is the Adidas outlet so the products are cheaper here," said Paul, a German buyer.
"I think it's very, very good and it's very accessible and the people is very nice. I feel very good here in China in this place," said Venezuelan buyer Cecilia.
Canton Fair draws scores of overseas buyers, boosts tourism in Guangzhou
