Published by ChinaMNC · Jiang

China Signals Open Trade Stance with 140th Canton Fair, Offering Steady Environment for Foreign Founders

At the 140th Canton Fair, President Xi Jinping’s congratulatory letter reaffirms China’s commitment to open trade and global supply chain stability. For foreign founders, this signals a consistent policy environment for registering and operating a company in China.

China Reaffirms Open Trade Commitment at 140th Canton Fair

On October 14, President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the 140th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair), emphasizing the fair’s role in promoting trade between China and other countries. The event, which opened the same day in Guangzhou, is co-hosted by the Ministry of Commerce and the Guangdong Provincial Government.

For foreign founders considering company registration in China, the letter provides useful context on China’s stated policy direction regarding international trade and investment.

Key Points from the Congratulatory Letter

In his letter, President Xi noted that over the 70 years since its founding, the Canton Fair has played an important role in facilitating trade between China and foreign countries. It has become an effective platform for China to expand high-level opening-up and to promote the building of an open world economy.

Under new circumstances, China is willing to work with other countries to:

• Jointly safeguard the multilateral trading system;
• Ensure the stability and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains;
• Expand space for mutually beneficial international economic and trade cooperation;
• Advance inclusive economic globalization that benefits all;
• Continuously inject new momentum into global development and prosperity.

These points reflect China’s official position on international economic engagement. For foreign founders, they suggest a policy environment that encourages foreign participation in trade and investment, though specific regulations and procedures still apply.

What This Means for Foreign Founders

The Canton Fair is widely known as a major gateway for foreign businesses to connect with Chinese suppliers and buyers. The 140th edition, held in Guangzhou, continues this tradition. While the letter does not announce new measures specifically for foreign investors, it reaffirms China’s commitment to openness and global economic cooperation.

For foreign founders planning to register a company in China or already operating one, such high-level statements can inform strategic planning. They indicate that the government values international trade and aims to maintain stable supply chains—factors that can affect import/export activities, sourcing, and partnership opportunities.

However, it is important to note that the letter is a general policy statement and does not change specific laws or regulations. Foreign founders should always consult the latest official regulations and seek professional advice for their particular situation.

Practical Considerations for Company Registration and Operation

Foreign founders looking to establish a presence in China typically need to navigate company registration, tax registration, and sector-specific licensing. The Canton Fair itself can be a valuable resource for market research and business networking, but it is not a substitute for legal and administrative procedures.

China’s commitment to multilateral trade and supply chain stability, as expressed in the letter, may influence the broader business climate. However, founders should focus on compliance with current laws, including those related to foreign investment, customs, and taxation.

Staying informed about official statements and policy directions can help foreign founders anticipate changes and align their business strategies accordingly. The 140th Canton Fair serves as a reminder of China’s ongoing engagement with global trade, which may present opportunities for foreign businesses.

Conclusion

The 140th Canton Fair and President Xi’s congratulatory letter underscore China’s stated commitment to open trade and international cooperation. For foreign founders, this reinforces the importance of monitoring policy signals while adhering to established regulations. As always, thorough due diligence and professional guidance are essential when registering and operating a company in China.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.

For assistance with company registration and operations in China, foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535.