The second phase of the 136th China Import and Export Fair has been teeming with green elements, showcasing a dazzling array of innovative products that highlight sustainability and cutting-edge technologies across various industries.
Popularly known as the Canton Fair, the biannual event is the largest trade fair in China. The second phase of the 136th fair took place from Wednesday to Sunday in south China's Guangzhou City, with a focus on products such as household goods, gifts, decorations, building materials and furniture.
The exhibition area for plant accessories has turned into a lush garden, offering buyers a one-stop shopping experience with products ranging from artificial turf and faux flowers to gardening tools and decorative fountains.
Many visitors have shown a keen interest in a 100-percent recyclable turf designed to minimize plastic use and reduce environmental pollution. This product isn't limited to the ground. An artistic modification combines turf with carpeting technology, making it suitable for wall decorations in spaces like kindergartens and gyms.
Urban gardening solutions for apartments are also in the spotlight. The latest hydroponic growing systems on display not only save space but ensure plants to thrive under LED lights without relying on sunlight. Meanwhile, hydroponics helps prevent insect pests, allowing for organic gardening practices. These products are especially popular in the European and American markets.
Lifelike artificial plants and flowers made from new materials have captured attention with their exquisite craftsmanship and eco-friendliness.
Wen Xin, an experienced exhibitor who has participated in the fair for 28 years, has introduced faux greenery with styles appealing to Belt and Road countries this year, which have been well received by buyers.
"[They] came over to sign an exclusive distribution agreement with me. I just shared with them my sales intentions and annual sales volume. We just finalized a quite large deal," said Ms. Wen.
The trend of green-oriented innovation is also evident at the area dedicated for building and decoration materials. Among the standout exhibits are lightweight bricks made from industrial by-products and reusable waterproof wall panels. Although these products may be higher-priced, their practicality and eco-friendliness have made them popular with consumers. Moreover, companies are going further to revolutionize their manufacturing processes. For example, a marble-like wall panel featuring patterns derived from waste materials can save raw resources by 30 percent while achieving 100-percent wastewater recycling.
Launched in 1957, the Canton Fair is held in the spring and autumn seasons annually with three phases for each edition. The exhibition is widely seen as a barometer of China's foreign trade.