Two weeks ago, two young South Africans (my son and his mate), representing Wild Technologies first venture into China, visited the recent 137th Canton Fair, held in Guangzhou.
Wild Technologies provides new business opportunities for South Africans in China
They fit well into China’s high-speed business development culture. Already they are sourcing South African skills from the Wild Technologies network to build their first online business đŸ™‚
Some claim the Canton Fair is the largest trade show in the world.
Whether that’s correct, what strikes the visitor is the high energy atmosphere and ‘high speed dating’ connections that facilitate new opportunities for business collaboration.
And, of course, its China, so the venue is on a scale that reminds you more of Dubai International Airport than a local South African trade show!
The fair showcases China’s growing role in global trade despite rising tensions with the U.S.
Over 148,000 international buyers attended, with significant increases from BRICS nations, especially  South Africa.
Amid a sharp drop in U.S. orders due to new tariffs, Chinese exporters turned their focus to emerging markets, presenting new opportunities for South African businesses seeking competitive suppliers and strategic partnerships.
For South African businesses the Canton Fair remains a vital gateway to Chinese innovation, competitive products, and a shifting global trade landscape that increasingly favours South-South cooperation.