In pics: history of Canton Fair

Iranian purchasers select porcelain of China during the 44th China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, in Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong Province,1978. Launched in 1957, the Canton Fair is held in the spring and autumn seasons each year. The exhibition is widely seen as a barometer of China's trade. (Xinhua/Huang Jianqiu)