Global Sources recently held its third annual China Sourcing Fairs in Johannesburg. The Fairs are the largest exhibitions of their kind in Africa to feature manufacturers of China-made consumer goods.

Showcasing more than 800 exhibitor booths, the collocated exhibitions were held Nov. 28-30 at the Gallagher Convention Centre, Gallagher Estate, Midrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.

"Africa's trade with China continues to expand. China-made consumer goods are playing an increasing larger role in African retail markets - providing consumers with more choices for quality products," said Tommy Wong, president of Global Sources Exhibitions.

He added, "Our Fairs in Johannesburg are an ideal platform for business people in South Africa and throughout continental Africa to meet directly with manufacturers and find the right products for their home markets."

In the first five months of 2012, trade between China and Africa grew by 22 percent year-on-year, reaching nearly US$80.5 billion, according to China's Ministry of Commerce.

Exports from China to Africa increased by 17.5 percent to reach US$30.9 billion in that same period.

The collocated events feature manufacturers of consumer electronics, solar and energy-saving products, fashion accessories, garments and textiles, baby and children's products, gifts and premiums, home products, and hardware and building materials.

The China Sourcing Fairs in Johannesburg are supported by important industry associations, including the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI), the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa (CGCSA), the Southern African Alternative Energy Association (SAAEA) and the Corporate Gifts Association of Southern Africa (CGASA).

There were several dignitaries on hand with Wong to officially open the China Sourcing Fairs:

-- Li Jiangning, Consul General, Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Johannesburg

-- Rong Yansong, Economic & Commercial Counsellor, the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of South Africa

-- Fang Lixu, Executive Vice-mayor, Chaozhou Municipal People's Government

-- Guo Kuilong, Director -- Exhibition Department, China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products

-- Sun Jiwa, Deputy Division-Director, Department of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation of Guangdong Province

The China Sourcing Fairs are exclusively for importers, traders, and other volume buyers who purchase consumer products for resale to markets throughout Africa. Last year, more than 7,000 qualified buyers attended the event, a 20-percent increase, compared with the inaugural events.