The southern city of Guangzhou is in the global spotlight as the 27th International Exhibition on Shoes and Leather Industry is staged from May 31 to June 2.

The exhibition, known as the most influential and promising footwear and leather industry fair in Asia, is being held at the China Import & Export Fair Complex (Area B), in the Guangdong provincial capital.

Covering a total area of more than 50,000 square meters, the fair is an important platform to showcase shoes and leather industrial machinery, equipment, materials, accessories, design and technology.

According to the organizer, the three-day event is expected to draw some 1,000 exhibitors from 20 countries and regions, including Bangladesh, Brazil, Egypt and Germany.

The exhibition also provides a special "Trend area" displaying stylish finished products and innovative raw materials from high-end designer brands presenting the hot news on tomorrow's colors and style.

In addition, there are several supporting activities during the expo such as seminars and forums on footwear and leather market trends.

"Guangdong province has gradually established a complete shoemaking industry chain and has a great talent group," Liu Suilong, chairman of the Association of Guangdong Shoes Manufacturers, commented. "The province is gearing up to export its services and technologies instead of only products."

Guangdong is preparing to build an Asian service center in the footwear industry, with a planned area of 180,000 square meters. Once completed, it will be a hub of design, information, fashion, technology, and shoe-making materials, Liu added.