Guangzhou fair puts spotlight on global SMEs

The China International SME Fair (CISMEF), which has been held annually in South China's Guangdong province since 2004, kicked off its 15th session in Guangzhou on Oct 10.

Providing a business platform for over 3,000 SMEs from 39 countries and regions, the 15th CISMEF is this year hosting more than 6,600 booths. Of these, 2,351 domestic exhibitors occupy 5,539 booths, while 668 overseas exhibitors take up the rest.

With a theme of "Intelligence, Wisdom, Smart Manufacturing, and Energy Conservation", the 15th CISMEF is particularly focused on eight industries including smart manufacturing, textiles, healthcare, food, daily necessities and liquor.

The fair is one of the largest of its kind in the world and this year the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become the co-host country. Taking an exhibition area of about 800 square meters, the Middle Eastern country has many of its products and services on display for visitors.

To promote the development of SMEs, the fair will also feature a range of forums including the China SME Summit, the 2018 "Maker in China" Innovation & Entrepreneurship Competition and Supply Chain Finance and the SME Financing Forum. In addition, nine special promotions and other activities will be held by delegations from the UAE, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Nepal, South Africa, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Taiwan.