东西问丨谢宝剑：广交会证明开放公平的自由贸易是大势所趋

Core Viewpoint - The Canton Fair exemplifies the trend towards open and fair free trade, demonstrating its resilience and importance in the current global trade landscape [1][9]. Group 1: Historical Context and Significance - The early archives of the Canton Fair serve as a testament to China's efforts to break through Western trade blockades and establish international communication [2]. - The establishment of the Canton Fair in 1957 was a crucial step in overcoming economic sanctions and expanding international markets, reflecting China's commitment to developing foreign trade [2][4]. - The principles of "contract respect" and "quality over quantity" highlighted in the archives underscore the importance of credibility in international trade, which remains relevant today [2][3]. Group 2: Evolution of China's Trade Environment - The development of the Canton Fair mirrors China's transition from a closed economy to a globally open economy, with significant changes occurring at key milestones such as the reform and opening-up policy and China's accession to the WTO [4][5]. - The Canton Fair has evolved through three major phases: 1. "Window-type trade" under a planned economy until 1978, where it played a key role in foreign exchange earnings [4]. 2. "Scale expansion" driven by market reforms from 1979 to 2012, marked by increased participation of private enterprises and a shift towards a more diverse range of export products [4][5]. 3. "Structural optimization" from 2013 onwards, focusing on high-quality development amidst global trade conflicts and technological advancements [5]. Group 3: Role in Global Trade and Economic Cooperation - The Canton Fair acts as a "stabilizing anchor" in the face of global trade tensions, providing an alternative trading channel that bypasses protectionist barriers [10]. - It serves as a "testing ground" for new digital trade rules and standards, enhancing procurement efficiency through innovative models like "online matching + offline transactions" [10][11]. - The fair's ability to attract over 280,000 foreign buyers from 219 countries and regions demonstrates its effectiveness in fostering international trade relationships [10]. Group 4: Future Directions and Policy Implications - The Canton Fair is positioned to further enhance trade facilitation by optimizing the trade environment and reducing barriers, while also sharing its successful practices with other countries [10][11]. - The fair's experience in market-driven rule innovation can inform global economic governance and promote dialogue on trade standards and regulations [11].