Core Insights - The article highlights the historical significance of Guangdong's foreign trade over the past thousand years, showcasing its evolution and importance as a key hub in the Maritime Silk Road [1][2]. Summary by Sections Exhibition Overview - The exhibition titled "Mutual Benefit Under Heaven: A Thousand Years of Guangdong Foreign Trade" opened on October 15 and will last for one year, featuring over 200 exhibits, including 22 national treasures [1]. - The exhibition is divided into four sections, illustrating the development of Guangdong's foreign trade from the Tang Dynasty to the present, emphasizing its role as a crucial maritime trade center [1][2]. Historical Context - The exhibition provides a clear historical narrative from the Tang Dynasty through the Ming and Qing Dynasties to the establishment of the People's Republic of China, highlighting the significance of platforms like the Canton Fair and the Guangdong Free Trade Zone [2]. - It showcases artifacts that represent the evolution of foreign trade systems and the active engagement of Guangdong with the world over the centuries [2]. Cultural Impact - Guangdong has served as a window for China to the world, with historical merchants from the region achieving significant wealth, including two who were once the world's richest [2]. - The article notes that foreign merchants have been purchasing goods in Guangdong for a thousand years, and the region has also been a starting point for Chinese goods reaching global markets [2].

Core Points - The 138th Canton Fair will be held from October 15 to November 4 in Guangzhou, featuring a record exhibition area of 1.55 million square meters and over 74,600 booths, with more than 32,000 participating companies, including approximately 3,600 first-time exhibitors [1][3] - The exhibition "Mutual Benefit for All: A Thousand Years of Guangdong Foreign Trade" will open on the same day, showcasing over 200 cultural relics that illustrate Guangdong's unique position and profound impact on China's foreign trade history [1][4] Exhibition Overview - The exhibition is themed "Mutual Benefit for All" and is divided into four main sections: "Maritime Trade Benefits the Nation," "Gathering of Merchant Ships," "East-West Exchange," and "New Chapters of Trade," which collectively present the evolution of Guangdong's foreign trade from its institutional beginnings to its status as a global hub [3][7] - The "Maritime Trade Benefits the Nation" section focuses on Guangdong's pioneering contributions to foreign trade management during the Tang and Song dynasties, highlighting the establishment of maritime officials and trade regulations [3][4] - The "Gathering of Merchant Ships" section showcases breakthroughs in tribute trade and merchant ship transformation during the Ming dynasty, reflecting the flexibility of the system and market vitality [3][4] - The "East-West Exchange" section illustrates Guangdong's role as a core stage for trade and cultural integration between China and the West during the Qing dynasty, emphasizing the "Cohong" trade system and the export of artworks [3][4] - The "New Chapters of Trade" section narrates the continuity and leap of Guangdong's foreign trade since the founding of New China, from the establishment of the Canton Fair to the development of free trade zones and the Greater Bay Area [3][4] Exhibition Features - The exhibition features significant artifacts, including a Tang dynasty carved figure, a Yuan dynasty blue-and-white vase, and a Qing dynasty wallpaper depicting agricultural trade, alongside documents, charts, and multimedia interactions to recreate trade scenes [4][5] - The design emphasizes an immersive experience and academic depth, using large text, prominent colors, and timelines to enhance the understanding of the evolution of foreign trade systems [5] - Interactive touch screens with animations are provided to explain Guangdong's foreign trade history, increasing engagement and interest among visitors [5][6] Historical Significance - The exhibition serves as a systematic review and display of Guangdong's foreign trade history, summarizing the historical experiences of openness, inclusivity, and mutual benefit [5][7] - It reflects China's confidence and determination in promoting foreign openness through a clear historical narrative and diverse storytelling methods [7]