The 115th Canton Fair opened with a high note in Phase 1, with a healthy 10% increase in overseas buyers' attendance. Whilst European visitor numbers fell, those from Africa and Asia rose significantly, with Asian buyers accounting for 50%. A total of 24,581 exhibitors were present, 64 more than last year.

The Fair is increasingly important for African buyers: visitor numbers and orders are boosted by a stabilizing political climate. Exhibitors said first-day orders rose significantly over 2013, particularly construction materials and electronics. One buyer from South Africa had already ended negotiations with a supplier for a USD 2 million order for hardware products.

"The Canton Fair is a place to meet with old friends for buyers and manufacturers," said Yang Jun, GM of Hefei Rongshida Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. Her company received orders worth RMB 300 million.

Sudanese Mohamyed said, "This is my fifth year here. Chinese goods are low-priced yet quality-assured and sell well in Sudan." Nigerian Chris added, "This is my second visit to look for TV accessories and home appliances."

Increasingly, African exhibitors find that the Fair allows them to find new business opportunities. Dalia Saad, VP Exports for Egyptian company Unionaire, a maker of kitchenware said, "The Fair is an international platform and the largest. Here we deal with the whole world."

Pakistani Muzzafar imports cycling jerseys, helmets, and gloves said: "Manufacturing is weak in Pakistan due to poor infrastructure, power shortages, and high fuel prices. This Fair is the largest of its kind across the globe."

According to Liu Jianjun, Canton Fair Spokesman, "African buyers are increasing in numbers and taking a very important position. We expect overseas attendance at this session to be around 200,000, similar to the 113th Fair." Mr. Liu added, "The Spring Session coincides with African buyers' peak purchasing season."

The Fair has introduced new incentives to attract more buyers, most notably cooperating with China Southern Airlines to reduce airfare costs for Australian buyers, and encouraging exhibitors to invite new buyers. Cooperation with overseas chambers of commerce for media exchange also has been fruitful.

The organizers are looking forward to welcoming many more buyers and exhibitors to the second and third phases of the Fair between April 23 and May 5.