Canton Fair: China's largest trade fair kicks off in Guangzhou

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15 years. That's how long Akin Birsen has been bringing his kitchenware from Turkey to the Canton Fair. Initially one of few foreign exhibitors setting up a booth here, he says he has seen more and more international companies coming to the fair in recent years.

AKIN BIRSEN, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR KUMTEL HOUSE "For many Turkish companies, they did not even consider the possibility of exporting to China. But right now most people are focusing on the Chinese market. It's huge. Even a tiny share from the Chinese market is a huge business for most of the companies."

Recently Birsen's company, Kumtel, finished developing a second brand, which is set to make its debut at the Canton fair this fall.

CUI HUI'AO GUANGZHOU "This 123rd edition of the bi-annual fair has attracted nearly 620 exhibitors from around the world, with more than 60 percent from countries and regions along the Belt and Road."

The growing international presence at the fair has boosted business opportunities not only for foreign exhibitors, but also for domestic manufacturers.

This car freezer maker from Shunde, south of Guangzhou, is making its fourth visit to the fair. Each year, its business turnover has doubled or even tripled from the previous year.

DEREK ZENG, REPRESENTATIVE FOSHAN ALPICOOL ELECTRIC APPLIANCE CO., LTD "Firstly all the customers they have to spend very expensive flight tickets to come to China, and the hotel price during the fair is always two or three times higher than the normal time. So the customer target there is very clear."

The recent trade dispute between China and the US does not seem to have much effect on the atmosphere. Buyers can be seen everywhere, carrying big suitcases.

SILVIE SANTISCO KRCMAROVA BUYER FROM SWITZERLAND "It's very competitive, it's good price. I can see that every year the suppliers are getting more professional. Also more foreign buyers."

The fall edition of the Canton fair will run in mid-October. That's when even more exhibitors and buyers are expected to come here. Cui Hui'ao, CGTN, Guangzhou.