China's capabilities of smart manufacturing have helped draw a large number of overseas buyers to visit the country's largest trade event, currently being held in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

As of Thursday noon, over 110,000 overseas buyers from 216 countries and regions have attended China Import and Export Fair, popularly known as the Canton Fair, representing a 10 percent increase compared to the same period during the 135th session in 2024.

Focusing on the theme of advanced manufacturing, the first phase of the fair covered manufacturing from industrial raw materials to finished products, from professional equipment to complete production lines.

"The Canton Fair offers a wide range of products, featuring rich product displays, transparent inquiry and pricing, as well as end-to-end supply chain services, highlighting the role of the fair as an open platform," said He Yongqian, a spokeswoman for the ministry, during a regular press conference.

Products such as service robots, VR devices, embedded refrigerators and dual-drive compartment washing machines are attracting significant attention as new consumer goods, according to the spokeswoman.

The on-site trade negotiations at the Canton Fair are lively, with participating companies reporting a higher number of attending buyers and active inquiries compared to previous sessions, the spokeswoman said.

"Many buyers have expressed that despite the current complex international situation, they remain optimistic about China and its products - their visit to the fair this time is not just for show but also to place orders," she said.

The 137th session of the Canton Fair, traditionally seen as a barometer of China's foreign trade, will run until May 5th.