May 09, 2020
The spring session of China Import and Export Fair(Canton Fair) , China’s oldest and largest trade expo,will be held online in mid-June . The fair, which used to run between mid-April and early May, was postponed over concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. The threat of imported infections, suspension of flights, and the closure of borders made it impossible to host an international fair. The government’s decision to hold a online exhibition marks the first time that this fair with 63 years history will not held in the Chinese city of Guangzhou, indicating the unprecedented pressure as the pandemic exert significant influence on global trade. Online expo is not only a firm response to the global spread but also a groundbreaking initiative for future development. Even in the era of e-commerce, the Canton fair, which started in 1957, still remains a major platform for Chinese exporters to introduce their products to buyers from all over the world. The first virtual Canton Fair will create a platform of high quality and specialty products covering 16 major categories, including home appliances, consumer goods, medical and health care. Supported by advanced information technology, the fair will provide 24/7 online services for business negotiations, enabling both exporters and importers to corporate remotely. In addition, the Canton Fair will set up a cross-border e-commerce zone to explore new possibilities for efficient trade and promote a batch of cross-border e-commerce enterprises. Live stream is also provided for exhibitors to introduce their products to buyers via custom live channels. Online sale, boosted by preferential policies and livestreaming technology, has already become a irresistible trend in different parts of China despite the economic downturn in the country.
