On October 15, the 136th Canton Fair officially kicked off in Guangzhou, an event often referred to as a “barometer” for foreign trade and a crucial window for observing China’s economy and global trade.
In Taizhou, Zhejiang Province, known for its robust private economy, local businesses have been meticulously preparing for the fair, eager to seize new opportunities and elevate “Taizhou Made” innovations onto a broader international stage, thanks to the support of the Taizhou trade delegation.
One standout participant is Sigma Co., Ltd., a company specializing in the design, research, development, production, and sales of automotive dampers and electronic suspension systems. As a seasoned attendee of the Fair, Sigma began its preparations early, focusing on product selection, display arrangements, and client outreach.
“Our team finalized over 20 newly-developed automotive dampers to showcase prominently at our booth,” explained Dai Hongjun, Sales Director of Sigma. “Participating in the Canton Fair is one of our most important events of the year, so we’re all geared up for it.”
In the lead-up to the fair, Sigma’s technicians dedicated extra hours refining the design of one specific damper model. “We aim for our samples to showcase the best performance,” said Sun Weibing, head of the R&D department.
Currently, Sigma’s products are exported to over 160 countries and regions, boasting an annual export revenue of $130 million. “In the past, we primarily focused on the European and North American markets, but we’re now turning our attention to emerging markets like Africa and South America,” Dai noted. For instance, the African market demands more powerful and resilient vehicles, prompting Sigma to enhance its product structure and performance to meet these needs.
For many foreign trade companies in Taizhou, the Canton Fair serves as a vital platform for unveiling new products, exploring fresh business prospects, and expanding market reach.
To maximize outreach, Ji Peixi, the Foreign Trade Manager at Zhejiang Tianying Motorcycle Co., Ltd., took to social media, posting in English to inform international buyers about their booth and inviting them to learn more about their offerings.
In September, Tianying participated in a brand outreach and cross-border procurement matching event, setting its sights on the African market. “During that event, we received positive feedback from African buyers, which has boosted our confidence in expanding internationally,” Ji remarked. Over the past two years, the company has added nearly ten new models each year, bringing its total to over 100, thus catering to various overseas market demands.
According to statistics from the Taizhou Bureau of Commerce, this year’s Canton Fair features 802 companies from Taizhou, occupying 2,100 booths, representing 23.1% of the Zhejiang delegation. Products on display range from home appliances and general machinery to bathroom fixtures and culinary tools, with over 30% being new offerings.
Moreover, to enhance the international visibility of “Taizhou Made,” local authorities will establish six dedicated exhibition areas at the fair, including showcases for the “Taizhou New Energy Vehicle and Parts Industry Base,” “China’s Spray Gun Capital,” “Huangyan – China’s Plastic Daily Goods Capital,” “China’s Festival Lantern Industry Exhibition Base – Zhejiang Linhai,” “Taizhou Smart Home,” and “Sanmen Tactical Jackets.”
A representative from the Taizhou Bureau of Commerce stated that 110 companies will participate in a collective display format: “By creating centralized exhibition zones, we can not only truly showcase the strength and charm of Taizhou’s various industries but also provide a significant platform for small and medium-sized enterprises to access global markets, thereby achieving high-quality international expansion.”
