Visitors seen at a booth established by a Ningbo coffee brand at the 135th Canton Fair. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn] 

Ningbo's trade delegation secured export deals exceeding $1 billion during the first phase of the 135th Canton Fair, which concluded in Guangzhou on April 19. This figure marks a 15 percent increase compared to the previous session, according to preliminary statistics.

A total of 764 local enterprises participated in the fair's first phase, collectively occupying 1,826 booths. This represents 46 percent and 45 percent, respectively, of Ningbo's total representation across the three phases.

The first phase showcased a diverse array of products, including household appliances, consumer electronics, and information technology products. Ningbo stood out in the home appliance sector, claiming 16.8 percent of the national exhibition space. It was followed by a presence in lighting at 11.9 percent and tools at 7.9 percent, thereby amplifying Ningbo's influence at the fair.

Statistics revealed that as of April 19, a total of 125,440 overseas buyers from 212 countries and regions worldwide participated in the fair in person, marking a 23.2 percent increase from the previous session. Notably, 68.3 percent of the total attendees were from countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, totaling 85,682 individuals, while European and American buyers constituted 18.1 percent, amounting to 22,694 attendees.