At China’s biggest trade event, the Canton Fair, exporters have been told not to pack up or leave early. Organizers issued a notice urging companies to stay at their booths for the full duration of the exhibition. This move comes as China faces growing trade tensions with the United States, which recently imposed heavy tariffs of 145% on Chinese imports.

The fair is happening in three phases: the first ran from Tuesday to Saturday, the next is from April 23–27, and the last will be held from May 1–5. Organizers say staying longer will help businesses find new customers and boost sales during these tough times.

The notice, shared widely on Chinese social media, warned that early exits could lead to a business group being banned from the current fair. Though it’s not clear how this rule will boost results, the pressure reflects China’s efforts to support its struggling exporters by pushing for more trade and domestic sales.

Despite exhibitors paying for their own booths and staff, the fair’s management insists that a full presence could make a difference in gaining international orders.

Source: Mint