Despite global trade tensions and rising protectionism, China’s trade exhibitions are witnessing a surge in participation from international businesses. The ongoing fifth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Hainan province has attracted a record-breaking 65 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders.
Similarly, the Canton Fair, which began on Tuesday in Guangzhou, saw 64,530 overseas buyers on its opening day—an 8.9% increase from last year and a new record for the event. Major international retailers like Walmart and Target from the United States, Carrefour from France, Tesco and Kingfisher from the UK, and Germany’s Metro are among the attendees.
Experts believe this strong turnout underscores the enduring appeal of China’s market. “Trade and cooperation remain key drivers of global development. All countries benefit from globalization,” said Niu Huayong, a professor at the International Business School of Beijing Foreign Studies University.
China’s Unmatched Market Maturity
Many international buyers at the Canton Fair emphasized the unique advantages of sourcing from China. “We have explored alternative countries, but no other region matches China’s maturity for our product category,” said Sonia Ben Behe, general manager of Dinova, a French retail company. “That’s why China remains at the core of our global sourcing strategy.”
Despite challenges like tariffs, businesses recognize China’s crucial role in the global supply chain. “China’s position is significant and widely respected,” noted Chris Arthan, an exhibitor from the United States.
Confidence in China’s Consumer Market
International brands are also showing strong faith in China’s consumer market. At this year’s CICPE, top global luxury brands made prominent appearances. The UK, as the guest country of honor, occupies over 1,300 square meters of exhibition space, showcasing 53 brands across fashion, beauty, homeware, health, and jewelry industries—doubling its presence from last year.
“I have seen tremendous innovation and growth within China’s economy in recent years, especially in digital technologies, life sciences, and green energy,” said Douglas Alexander, minister of state of the British Department for Business and Trade. He emphasized the UK’s commitment to deepening economic ties with China.
Nancy Liu, president of luxury travel retailer DFS China, highlighted the opportunities presented by China’s youthful luxury consumers. “Luxury consumers in China are significantly younger than those in many overseas markets, and that presents a major opportunity for us,” she said.
Foreign Investors Remain Optimistic
Global trade uncertainties haven’t deterred foreign investors from being optimistic about the Chinese market. The country’s vast market size, rising consumer demand, and supportive policies continue to offer unique appeal.
“The development of the Hainan Free Trade Port is unlocking new opportunities for openness,” said Yao Zhenguo, global senior vice president of Siemens Energy. “We will continue to strengthen collaboration across the full industrial chain, drive innovation, and support the Hainan Free Trade Port’s international growth.”
Yao noted that Siemens has felt the momentum of China’s reform and opening up—a sentiment echoed by many exhibitors. They believe that China’s commitment to high-standard opening up provides much-needed stability and confidence in the global economy.
Resilience Amid Global Challenges
China’s total goods imports and exports expanded 1.3% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, demonstrating stable growth and strong resilience despite external headwinds, according to customs data.
Experts acknowledge that while challenges exist, they won’t alter China’s economic trajectory. “We can see that foreign businesspeople continue to seek opportunities in China,” said Zhang Yansheng, an economist with the Academy of Macroeconomic Research. “At a time when anti-globalization sentiments grow, China will stick to the path of opening up at a high level and promote economic globalization, as well as trade and investment liberalization.”
Amid global trade turbulence, China’s unwavering commitment to openness and cooperation continues to attract global firms, reinforcing its vital role in the international economy.
