Firstly, the Canton Fair has changed its format to comply with governmental regulations and pandemic protocols. Previously, it was organized into three phases, which were conducted over a span of 20 days. Participants could attend all three phases or choose to attend a specific phase with products relevant to their industry. However, due to the pandemic, the Canton Fair has been forced to adapt and change its format. In recent years, it has transitioned to an online-based fair, with the physical fair being held at the Guangzhou International Convention and Exhibition Center. This move has allowed people who cannot travel to Guangzhou to participate in the fair and has boosted its digital presence.
Secondly, the Canton Fair has seen a decline in attendance in recent years. According to the Canton Fair's official website, the fair attracted over 250,000 buyers from more than 200 countries and regions in the spring edition of 2019. However, despite the fair being held online and physically, the attendance rate dropped significantly due to the global pandemic, and this has had a significant impact on the trade volume.
Finally, there has been a shift in the products showcased at the Canton Fair. Traditionally, the Canton Fair has been well known for its textile and clothing products, but in recent times, the landscape has changed. This change is due to an increased focus on new technologies, green and sustainable products, artificial intelligence, and home appliances.
In conclusion, the Canton Fair is constantly evolving and changing, adapting to the current political and social climate. The ongoing pandemic has caused some significant impacts and challenges for the fair, but the Canton Fair has demonstrated resilience and has been quick to adapt to the new normal. Though the Canton Fair's present form may differ from its glory days, the organizers are continually looking for ways to keep it relevant and useful, the stability of the Chinese economy, and its businesses relying on it. The Canton Fair may be facing new challenges, but its importance to trade and Chinese entrepreneurship will never change.
