HONG KONG, April 15 (Reuters) - China's largest trade fair, held twice a year, opened on Wednesday in the southern city of Guangzhou, where more than 32,000 exhibitors are showcasing products over an area larger than 200 football fields.
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Held from April 15 to May 5 in three phases, the fair provides a barometer of trade in China.
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It is being held after data showed China's export engine slowed sharply in March as war in the Middle East triggered shocks to energy and transportation, hurting global demand and exposing the risks in Beijing's strategy of leaning on manufacturing to support growth.
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The conflict has disrupted global growth, leaving China vulnerable as it has relied on foreign demand to offset a prolonged inability to revive consumption at home.
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To accommodate buyers facing travel constraints, the fair is holding online events and livestreaming, organisers said.
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The expo's first phase includes electronics, manufacturing and new energy vehicles. The second phase offers housewares, building materials and furniture while the third phase features toys, fashion, home textiles and stationery.
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The previous fair drew more than 310,000 overseas buyers from 223 countries and regions, according to its website.
Reporting by Farah Master; Editing by Neil Fullick
Source: Reuters