On October 15th, the 138th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) officially opened. At Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, the core hub of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and set to become the world's largest single-terminal airport, numerous first-time international buyers enjoyed seamless entry processes, with on-site Canton Fair credential services and comprehensive "aviation + exhibition" convenience packages.

Why do international buyers insist on attending the Canton Fair in person? What fresh perspectives do Canton Fair "newcomers" bring? What are their new expectations?

**Exploring the World, Experiencing Culture, and Seeking Business Opportunities**

"This is my first time at the Canton Fair. I want to see how big this world really is, especially how big China is," said Alex, a Singaporean buyer who views the Canton Fair as a "gateway to the world." This first-time participant is focusing on electronic information products and hardware. Alex mentioned that during his free time, he also plans to visit Bruce Lee's former residence to have tea and experience Lingnan culture.

Adele from Kazakhstan, working in the apparel industry, targeted Chinese clothing products on her first Canton Fair visit. "Eighty percent of global clothing is made in China. Chinese clothing offers rich variety and solid quality," she revealed. "Some major clothing brands also source at the Canton Fair, then add their own brand labels for domestic sales."

"The Canton Fair is the place to find suppliers and supply chains," said Jackson Talkan, a buyer from Cameroon who just landed after a long flight, smiling as he declared the journey "worth traveling thousands of miles." Talkan emphasized that "the Canton Fair is the core platform for finding suppliers, and face-to-face communication is crucial." Engaged in home appliance trade, his first visit to China was this summer when he toured Haier's factories in Qingdao. This second China visit aims to deepen cooperation at this Canton Fair, establishing better channels for Chinese refrigerators, televisions, and other flagship home appliances to enter the Cameroonian market.

**From "Made in China" to "China Opportunities"**

"Guangzhou is so vibrant and looks absolutely amazing," said Stan, a Russian buyer along with his twin brother, both first-time visitors to China and the Canton Fair. "We're interested in auto parts and new energy vehicles, both for business and personal purchase of Chinese new energy cars."

Canadian buyer Samir, attending for the first time, expressed hopes for surprises during his visit: "I want to see the most cutting-edge technology here, so I can't wait to 'hunt for treasures.'"

Salen from Uzbekistan also noted that his first Canton Fair visit was motivated by the platform's rare business matching opportunities for global merchants.

Anatoly from Azerbaijan, displaying his buyer credentials, shared with reporters: "I know the Canton Fair is one of the world's largest exhibitions." Anatoly primarily sources stage equipment, including audio and lighting systems. "I've had business relationships with Chinese manufacturers for over 10 years and cooperate with many Guangzhou factories," he added. "Azerbaijani consumers really love Chinese products."

"The Canton Fair is a gateway to the world," as Singaporean buyer Alex aptly described, perhaps best capturing the essence of this massive commercial gathering. In these newcomers' initial experiences, from "Made in China" to "China Opportunities," Russian buyers arrive with new energy vehicle dreams, while Cameroonian merchants remain determined that "no distance is too far to travel"... One door opens global business opportunities; one path leads to an open future.