During the fair, over 100 delegates from more than 10 countries gathered together to investigate the potential of the Chinese market.

Hiromi Shimazu, a Japanese designer with a personal female brand, was at the fair to find business partners.

"I'm a member of The Japan Apparel-Fashion Industry Council, and this is the first opportunity for the Chinese government to create the link with JAFIC. I'd like to meet some retailers and distributors in China and I would love to explore more," said Hiromi.

To break into the domestic market and compete with local companies is another purpose for foreign investors to attend the fair.

Peter Ouwerkerk, the China operation manager of Hansboodt, a Dutch mannequin company, believed this event could help to promote brand awareness for their mannequin business.

"We already have big business in Xiamen selling our mannequins to high-end international brands. But we also want to expand our business with locals. It is a bit challenging because most of the Chinese brands use domestic suppliers. I hope we can contact lots of local fashion brands from Guangzhou and from Xiamen."

For the foreign brands willing to cooperate, the China National Garment Association is also keen to help and provide a platform to link the domestic services to individuals and companies.

"We can link foreign companies to potential partners in Jinjiang or Shishi city around Xiamen, as well as many suppliers and manufacturers in Guangdong," said Chen.

The fair has also invited leading companies in the garment industries, like Chaoroom from South Korea and Cegid from France, to hold workshops and lead discussions to share their experiences as mature businesses.

Ren Xiaojin and Zhang Yi contributed to the story.

Chen Dapeng (second left), vice-president of the China International Garment Association, exchanges opinions with foreign designers.[Photo provided to China Daily]