Guangzhou Customs has launched eight measures to support the upcoming 127th China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, which will take place from June 15 to 24.

The 127th Canton Fair will be held online due to the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, being the first of its kind since the event was first held in 1957.

Deng Qiang, an official from Guangzhou Customs, said that the customs has made innovations in its eight measures, such as setting up an online consultation platform for the first time to offer professional services including online consultation and live streaming, aiming to boost the development of cross-border electronic commerce.

Samples used in the negotiation for deals between exhibitors and purchasers during the Canton Fair can be also recognized as exhibits of the fair, enjoying the same preferential policies as exhibits like tax exemptions.

Customized services are available for cross-border e-commerce platforms participating in the Canton Fair to help them better understand the policies.

"The support from the customs is no longer being limited by time and space so that companies attending the fair can receive more support," said Xiao Rong, deputy director of the business department of the Canton Fair.

Green channels have been set up for about 42,000 exhibits that are on their way to Guangzhou to shorten the time for clearance.