Expo provides an international insight

Next to the Liechtenstein booth, a booth was selling toys from Peru made of alpaca wool, which is known for its softness, warmth and vibrant dyes.

"The wool is incredibly fine and luxurious, and the toys are not only cuddly but also durable," says Wang Yuxi, a manager with Nuna Alpaca, a trade company working with the commercial office of the Peruvian embassy in China. "All the stuffed animals and dolls were handmade by artisans, and incorporate designs and patterns that reflect Peruvian culture."

Her company has been promoting the wool products for four years in China, including on occasions such as the China International Fair for Trade in Services.

"Our stand is a hot spot at the services trade fair, and an increasing number of Chinese customers have followed our products over the years, especially women and children," she adds.

The toy-making process involves dyeing the wool using natural pigments, then felting or knitting it into different shapes. "Each toy is one of its kind, a demonstration of the artisans' skills and creativity, and they are lightweight, and hypoallergenic," Wang says.

The toys use wool shed from 3-month-old alpacas. "The shedding is good for future wool growth, so our business is also built on a sustainable link in the local industrial chain," she explains.

Wang says that she introduced the toys to China not only to improve sales, which would help support makers in Peru, but also to help Chinese visitors better understand Peru's culture, and motivate them to visit the country.

"We also brought in instruments like panpipes, which are popular in rituals in a number of South American countries," she adds.