The
President of the Republic Pedro Castillo on Thursday inaugurated the 130th edition of the Canton Fair, noting that the Government of Peru recognizes the importance of China as Peru's strategic partner in the Asia-Pacific region, mainly in the field of foreign trade and investment.
"The bilateral relations, the diplomatic field and that of commercial interest for the benefit of all Peruvians are strengthened with this type of events," he said after participating in this large event that includes a wide range of trade shows and business volume.
In his opening speech, delivered virtually, the Peruvian Head of State stressed his firm willingness to continue to strengthen commercial-economic relations, by cementing bonds of friendship between both countries.
The Peruvian leader spoke about the importance of China as Peru's primary trade partner. Last year, bilateral trade amounted to more than US$22 billion, driven by Peruvian exports to Chinese territory, which totaled US$12.5 billion, that is, a trade surplus in favor of Peru.
The top official remarked that trade with China not only creates greater opportunities for economic growth but improvements in the quality of life of the Peruvian population.
Likewise, he emphasized that this is a highly popular event that serves to share knowledge, technology, and culture.
In this regard, Mr. Castillo noted that, despite the pandemic, trade flows experienced a recovery in the first half of the year totaling US$14.5 billion, a 75% increase compared to the same period in 2020, mainly underpinned by higher Peruvian exports of fishing, mining, and agro-industrial products.
About the fair
China Import and Export Fair, also known as Canton Fair, was established in 1957 and is held every spring and autumn in Guangzhou, China. Since 2020, in the face of the raging global pandemic of coronavirus and severely battered global trade, the Canton Fair was moved online.
The Canton Fair enhances trade connection between China and the world, demonstrating China's image and achievements of development.
(END) NDP/JCR/RMB
Published: 10/14/2021