During the 139th Canton Fair, held from April 15 to May 5 in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong Province, the city’s intended transaction volume with ASEAN markets rose 23.3% year on year, according to the Guangzhou Municipal Commerce Bureau on May 6. Buyers from Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and other ASEAN countries were the main drivers of the order growth.Â
The growth in orders from ASEAN countries at the fair came from four key sectors: new energy, intelligent equipment, new energy vehicles, and cultural and creative products integrated with local craftsmanship. Â
Given the hot and humid tropical climates common in many ASEAN countries, local markets have strong demand for efficient and stable energy solutions. New energy products proved popular at the Canton Fair. For example, SAJ, a new energy company from Guangzhou, said 15% of its intended orders at the 139th Canton Fair came from ASEAN markets, with its AI solar energy storage systems tailored for Vietnam’s harsh weather among the highlights.Â
AI-powered security products were also well received. At the dedicated robotics zone of the 139th Canton Fair, robot dogs equipped with self-developed AI vision algorithms could detect illegal intrusions, high temperatures and smoke, while also supporting firefighting and communication functions. Guangzhou-based PadBot noted that overseas buyers now place orders directly, a marked shift from previous years when many were still learning about product functions. The company also saw more clients from the Belt and Road partner countries and BRICS countries.
ASEAN buyers also showed strong interest in new energy vehicles. NEV models displayed by Guangzhou-based GAC Group won high praise from Cambodian purchasers. Meanwhile, cultural products infused with intangible cultural heritage elements have emerged as a new growth highlight. Garments featuring Cantonese embroidery and leather goods incorporating Teochew inlay porcelain craftsmanship secured pre-order deals and high-end customization cooperation with Singapore and other ASEAN markets.
Data show that ASEAN has long been one of Guangzhou’s top trading partners. In 2025, bilateral trade volume exceeded 200 billion yuan, up 28% year on year. In the first quarter of 2026, trade between Guangzhou and the 10 ASEAN countries reached 47.47 billion yuan. Mechanical and electrical products, high-tech goods and labor-intensive products led Guangzhou’s exports to ASEAN, while the city imported consumer goods, agricultural products, and mechanical and electrical products from ASEAN markets.
Reporter | Huang Xinyi
Photo |Â Guangzhou Municipal Commerce Bureau