China Import and Export Fair, also known as Canton Fair, is held twice a year in spring and autumn and was established over 50 years ago in 1957. It is one of the country's largest trade fairs attracting a large number of visitors from all over the globe.
One of the many visitors to the most recent show was Cory Haynes, operations manager for US-based operator Dave and Busters. Commenting on the show he said: “I go to the Canton Fair every spring and fall to see what new items manufacturers are producing such as toys, novelty, electronics, plush and gift items.
“The most recent show was split into three phases which eliminated the huge crowds the event can attract and made it feel smaller than usual, but I think this is because exhibitors were more spread out. However, there were less toy manufacturers than in previous years as one might imagine with all the new regulations in place.”
Commenting on new product on show, Haynes added: “The iPod and MP3 accessories are still hot and there were lots of them. USB items are also continuing to grow with lots of new lights, fans and novelties to plug into your computer. Digital photo frames and viewers were strong as well and I saw a lot of new clocks and desktop products for executive-type gifts.
“There was also a good selection of ‘staples’ for a game room in the novelty category but nothing earth shatteringly good in any category.”
Haynes also noted that the current US economy was a constant topic of conversation.
