Chinese Premier Highlights 70 Years of Canton Fair at Seminar in Guangzhou

Guangzhou, October 14 (Daily Kiran) : Chinese Premier Li Qiang participated in a seminar on the 70th anniversary of the Canton Fair in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, on October 14. During the event, he addressed representatives from foreign buyers and exhibitors, emphasizing the fair’s significant role in China’s openness and development over the past seven decades. He noted that the Canton Fair has become a crucial example of China’s global engagement and serves as an important window for the international community to understand the country.

Li highlighted the fair as one of the world’s premier trade platforms, facilitating easy and convenient business transactions. It not only promotes traditional goods but also points toward the development of new trade sectors. Furthermore, he stated that the Canton Fair plays a vital role in strengthening economic and trade cooperation between China and other nations, fostering mutual understanding and friendship.

In recent years, companies from various countries participating in the fair have expanded their business scope. They are no longer limited to mere trading partners but are moving towards broader collaboration. Li identified three key trends in this transformation.

First, the shift from business partnerships to innovation partnerships provides nations with more opportunities to share the benefits of technological advancements. He assured that China would continue to foster an open and innovative business environment while strengthening the protection of intellectual property rights related to foreign investments.

Second, the transition from business partnerships to investment partnerships allows companies greater access to new markets and expansion opportunities. Li reiterated China’s commitment to improving the investment climate and expanding market access for foreign enterprises.

Third, the evolution from business partnerships to industrial and supply chain partnerships enhances companies’ capacity to tackle risks and challenges. He indicated that China would accelerate the construction of a modern industrial system.

Li expressed a warm welcome to increased foreign investment in China. He encouraged companies to boost their participation in the Chinese market and strengthen practical industrial and supply chain cooperation based on mutual benefits. He hopes that both Chinese and foreign firms will play an active role in better aligning global demand and supply, as well as advancing international innovation cooperation, thereby reinforcing global economic and trade collaboration.

The seminar saw participation from around 70 business leaders across approximately 30 countries and regions. Business representatives affirmed the Canton Fair as one of the most reliable platforms for global trade. They expressed confidence in China’s development prospects and eagerness to strengthen cooperation, share innovative experiences, and promote mutual benefits and shared success.

Before the seminar, Li visited an exhibition themed on the 70 years of the Canton Fair, where he presented commemorative tokens and certificates to long-serving staff members. He also took group photos with them.

Notably, the Canton Fair, officially known as the China Import and Export Fair, was first held in 1957 and has been conducted biannually ever since. This year marks its 70th anniversary.