US Consul General Brian L. Goldbeck (R.) talks with China's Vice Minister of Commerce Yi Xiaozhun at the Canton Fair Reception in October, 2009.

U.S. Consul General Brian L. Goldbeck toured the Canton Fair October 15 to observe the expansive US-China trading relationship in action, to learn more about investment opportunities in south China, and to encourage Chinese investment in the United States.

After visiting the Canton Fair Consul General Goldbeck said: "I have worked on many different continents in many different countries, but this is certainly the largest trade show that I have ever seen. There were over 50,000 stands and 22,000 exhibitors.

Mr. Glodbeck added, "I understand last year's Canton Fair generated USD$26.23 billion in business, and I'm confident that this fair will generate a similar volume. I hope that more Chinese businesses will discover some of the valuable investment opportunities in the United States and I hope that Chinese companies and consumers alike will purchase more high-quality U.S. goods and services."