Guangzhou: Emerging markets continue to serve as a strong growth engine for Chinese export-oriented enterprises, with a record number of overseas buyers preregistering for the China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair.

According to Emirates News Agency, the fair, which is held twice a year in spring and autumn, commenced its 138th session on Wednesday in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province.

More than 240,000 buyers from 218 countries and regions have preregistered for the fair, marking a 10 percent increase from the previous session, as stated by the organisers. The event has seen significant growth in the number of buyers not only from the European Union and the United States but also from emerging markets, including countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

On the opening day alone, more than 69,000 overseas buyers were recorded, highlighting the fair's substantial international appeal. In the first three quarters of the year, China's exports to emerging markets such as ASEAN, Africa, and Central Asia have increased by 14 percent, 27.3 percent, and 11.8 percent, respectively, based on data from the General Administration of Customs.