Canton Fair Observations: Oriental Aesthetics Integrated into Products as Original Chinese Style Goes Global
At the 139th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair), numerous Chinese enterprises have integrated intangible cultural heritage techniques, traditional aesthetics, and regional characteristic elements into product design and manufacturing. Through innovative intelligent manufacturing, they are empowering Oriental aesthetics to break through boundaries and head overseas.
For example, Guangzhou Gussio Leather Goods presented a series of handbags inspired by classic imagery from "Along the River During the Qingming Festival". The company has launched six "Chinese-style" collections, including a Chaoshan inlaid porcelain series featuring intricate roof ridge patterns from ancient architecture, and a lotus-themed design series inspired by the elegant artistic conception of "On the Love of the Lotus". The product range includes handbags and shoulder bags.
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An overseas businessman picked up a handbag inspired by classic imagery from "Along the River During the Qingming Festival". (CNS)
Chen Yanrong, the company manager, noted that merchants from Italy, Germany, Serbia, Croatia, and several other countries have already expressed interest in cooperation. The brand adheres to an independent brand globalization strategy, relying on overseas distributor channels to bring original Chinese designs to the international market.
At a Chinese New Year cultural and creative exhibition booth dominated by red and gold tones, products such as awakening lions and artificial red plum blossom ornaments were displayed, showcasing a strong Chinese Spring Festival atmosphere.
"We have observed that Chinese culture is becoming increasingly popular globally. We have already reached cooperation agreements with several supermarkets in the UK, and a large number of local British consumers are purchasing these products," said Huang Jun, Deputy General Manager of Foreign Trade at Guangdong Eagle Gifts. She added that British schools now introduce Chinese culture in their curriculum, and during the Chinese New Year, children decorate classrooms with festive ornaments.
From apparel and cultural products to everyday goods, Chinese aesthetics are entering the global market in diverse forms.
"We do not simply sell products; we aim to let the world see the innovation of traditional Chinese craftsmanship," said Yu Ji, head of overseas operations at Hangzhou Zhu Bingren Copper Art. The company presented works integrating multiple techniques such as molten copper casting, lacquer art, and cloisonné, attracting buyers from India, SEA, and Africa for negotiations. "A century of heritage itself sparks curiosity among overseas buyers. Customers are often first attracted by the design, and then delve deeper into the Chinese cultural stories behind it. That is the charm of culture." (CNS)