International buyers visit a booth of a company from Longgang, Wenzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: lgzrmzf]
The 137th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) recently concluded with strong results for Wenzhou-based enterprises, which received more than 17,000 buyers and secured over $279 million in intended orders — a 3-percent year-on-year increase, according to the Wenzhou municipal bureau of commerce.
This year, Wenzhou sent a record 774 companies with 1,623 booths to the fair, setting new highs for both participant and booth numbers. The city's exhibitors attracted buyers from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South America, and ASEAN, while actively exploring new markets alongside consolidating traditional ones.
Driven by innovation, branding, and a commitment to green development, Wenzhou enterprises are shifting from product output to innovative output. Eleven companies were recognized as quality exhibitors at the fair's new product release event and 358 were listed as featured enterprises. Innovations ranged from industrial design and core technology to upgraded product iterations.
One standout product was a 3D deep-tissue muscle massager developed by Zhejiang E-cozy Electronic Technology Co, which combines AI-powered acupoint precision with hot/cold compress and infrared therapy. It drew significant attention from representatives of global brands.
Wenzhou is also shifting its focus from product exporters to global brands. Over 200 of the city's exhibitors held national-level innovation titles, spanning 25 product categories including electronics and auto parts.
Delixi Electric, a returning Canton Fair participant, exemplified this shift. Leveraging its product and brand strength, the company connected with more than 200 buyers from 40 countries, landing over $30 million in potential deals.
Green initiatives also took center stage, with 286 Wenzhou companies occupying eco-friendly booths. Many firms showcased environmentally friendly products, responding to global carbon tariffs and EU EPR regulations. This marks a strategic upgrade from mere product displays to conveying sustainable value and enhancing the global perception of Wenzhou manufacturing.
