HONG KONG – The upcoming China Import and Export Fair – popularly known as Canton Fair – has received special attention from importers and exporters this year in the wake of global trade turbulence unleashed by US President Donald Trump's so-called reciprocal tariffs.
The 137th edition of the fair, which is set to kick off on Apr 15 at the Canton Fair Complex in Guangzhou, can offer businessmen from across the world a platform to explore new trade opportunities and partners to navigate the uncertainty.
Featuring 13 categories and 55 exhibition sections, the 15-day Canton Fair will be a one-stop trade platform covering a complete range of quality products.
This year’s fair will set up a unique exhibition zone for service robots for the first time, with various robots designed for personal, household, and professional use.
Promoting I&T cooperation
The InnoEX and the Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition) are set to be held from Apr 13 to 16 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition, drawing more than 2,800 exhibitors from 29 countries and regions.
The InnoEX will display cutting-edge solutions in low-altitude economy, AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and smart mobility, while the EFSE will spotlight smart home, health tech, and wearable devices.
These fairs come as part of the Business of Innovation and Technology Week, as the special administrative region government steps up efforts to deepen international innovation and technology cooperation and reinforce the city’s position as an international I&T center.
Macao heritage with opera, rituals
Marking the annual A-Ma Festival, which pays homage to Mazu – the Goddess of Seafarers and one of Macao’s best-known Chinese deities, the city’s A-Ma Temple Square will host traditional Cantonese opera performances from April 18 to 22.
As parts of national intangible cultural heritage, the festivities feature ritual operas staged in a custom-built theater, blending spiritual devotion with vibrant cultural artistry. Visitors can immerse themselves in elaborate costumes, historical storytelling, and ceremonial practices that have thrived for centuries.
Held during the third month of the Chinese lunisolar calendar, which aligns with Mazu’s birthday on the 23rd day, the event will highlight the city’s maritime heritage and folk beliefs.
Thai-flavored bazaars
Festival vibes are evident in Hong Kong’s Kowloon City with the Thai Festival Songkran 2025 running there from Friday to Sunday.
The festival, organized at the Carpenter Road Park, features a Thai-themed bazaar, lively water-splashing zones, Muay Thai showcases, traditional dance performances and photo-worthy Thai costume experiences to celebrate Songkran, the grandest holiday of many calendars of Southeast and South Asia.
Three glowing Thai-inspired installations will also light up the park after dark.
