Published by ChinaMNC · Zhangfeng

What the 70th Anniversary of the Canton Fair Means for Foreign Founders in China

Premier Li Qiang's remarks at the 'Canton Fair World 70 Years' symposium highlight three upgrading trends for foreign businesses and new fair initiatives, offering practical implications for company registration and operations in China.

Premier Li Qiang Attends 'Canton Fair World 70 Years' Symposium

On October 14, Premier Li Qiang attended a symposium in Guangzhou marking the 70th anniversary of the Canton Fair. The event, titled "Canton Fair World 70 Years," brought together around 70 business representatives from nearly 30 countries and regions. For foreign founders considering or already operating a company in China, the Premier's remarks provide useful context on how China's trade platform is evolving and what support foreign enterprises can expect.

Three Upgrading Trends for Foreign Partners

After listening to speeches by overseas buyers and exhibitors, Premier Li noted that foreign companies participating in the Canton Fair are engaging in more diverse business activities and are gradually upgrading to comprehensive partners. He highlighted three notable trends that can help businesses better utilize the fair and seize opportunities in China's development.

• From trade partner to innovation partner: This shift allows companies to better share the benefits of technological progress. China will continue to foster an open innovation ecosystem, strengthen foreign-related intellectual property protection, and actively address corporate concerns.
• From trade partner to investment partner: This can unlock more incremental market space. China will continue to optimize the foreign investment environment, expand market access, and support localized production by foreign enterprises.
• From trade partner to supply chain partner: This effectively enhances risk resistance and shock resilience. China will accelerate the construction of a modern industrial system and advance the planning and construction of new power grids, computing networks, and next-generation communication networks. Foreign companies are welcome to invest more in China, deepen their presence, and strengthen mutually beneficial and pragmatic supply chain cooperation.

These trends suggest that foreign founders should think beyond mere trading and consider deeper integration—such as setting up innovation partnerships, investing in local production, or joining supply chains. For those registering a company in China, this may mean exploring joint ventures, wholly foreign-owned enterprises, or supply chain partnerships that align with these priority areas.

Building a 'Golden Signboard' for the Future

Premier Li emphasized that at the new starting point of the 70th anniversary, the Canton Fair should be made even more prominent. He outlined three directions:

• Smart Canton Fair: Develop new scenarios and tracks to increase the fair's digital and intelligent content.
• Green Canton Fair: Introduce more green products and exhibition areas, promote green trade, and contribute to global green transformation.
• Humanistic Canton Fair: Highlight cultural elements, promote exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, and deepen mutual understanding and friendship.

These initiatives signal opportunities for foreign founders in areas such as digital trade, green technology, and cultural exchange. Aligning your business with these themes could enhance your visibility and support from Chinese authorities.

Voices from the Business Community

Business representatives at the symposium shared their perspectives. They noted that over 70 years, companies from various countries have grown alongside the Canton Fair. Amid deep restructuring of global supply chains, China's manufacturing competitiveness is increasingly strengthening, making significant contributions to world economic development. The Canton Fair was described as the most trusted global business platform. The Chinese government's continuous and precise policies to optimize the business environment have helped companies achieve leapfrog development.

Foreign representatives expressed confidence in China's development prospects and willingness to work with China to share innovation, promote growth, and achieve mutual benefit. Such sentiments reflect the positive reception that foreign businesses can expect when operating in China.

Practical Implications for Foreign Founders

For foreign founders looking to register or operate a company in China, the symposium underscores several key points:

• Innovation and IP protection: China's commitment to strengthening intellectual property protection is beneficial for technology-driven companies. Ensure your IP strategy is robust when entering the Chinese market.
• Investment environment: Continued optimization of the foreign investment environment and expanded market access mean easier establishment and operation of foreign-invested enterprises.
• Supply chain integration: Support for localized production and supply chain cooperation can help foreign companies mitigate risks and enhance resilience.
• Green and digital transition: The focus on green and smart initiatives at the Canton Fair suggests emerging opportunities in these sectors. Consider aligning your business model with these trends.

Additionally, the Chinese government's ongoing efforts to improve the business environment through precise policies can facilitate company registration, licensing, and daily operations. Foreign founders should stay informed about local incentives and regulatory updates.

Conclusion

The 70th anniversary of the Canton Fair highlights China's ongoing commitment to openness and international cooperation. For foreign founders, understanding these trends can inform strategic decisions about market entry and expansion. Whether you are considering registering a company in China or looking to deepen your existing operations, the evolving landscape offers both challenges and opportunities.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.

Call to Action: Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.