Qin Mingxiao, 71, watched in awe as a young magician did tricks with two bars of chocolate at the third Beijing International Magic Carnival that closed on Sunday.

Though a magician for over 50 years, Qin admitted he could not see how the trick was executed. "All I know is that the secret is in the chocolate prop," he said.

"The manufacture of stage magic props was booming in the United States in the 1980s," Qin said as he recalled an eye-opening trip to the States. "Now, 30 years later, China is catching up."

The three-day magic event featured a fair for international traders from the United States, the Republic of Korea and South Africa, where designers, prop manufacturers and sellers shared experiences and explored cooperation with their counterparts .

"Chinese magic companies seldom meet with foreign colleagues except at fairs like this," said Wang Ji, one of a team of six specializing in prop manufacturing established last year.

During the trade fair, Wang's team reached agreement with Las Vegas Magic Shop.

"The Americans are interested in how we can do what we do so cheaply," Wang said. "Our next step is to make prototypes to the Las Vegas Magic Shop's specifications."

"Finalizing the deal will be a big step for us," he added.

Small magic companies in China have been doing well in recent years, according Liang Ming, CEO of Magic Alexor Studio. Established only in 2008, Magic Alexor Studio is one of the most important in China.

"More Chinese prop companies are seeking cooperation with foreign rivals," said Liang.

At the carnival, two books on magic for beginners were launched, the first in a series of books to be released in China by American magic company Vanishing. Inc.

"We plan to publish seven books each year in China," said Joshua Jay, CEO of Vanishing. Inc.

"More foreign books will be introduced each year for magic lovers in China," confirmed Liu Quanxin, director of the cultural commission of Changping District, one of the event organizers.

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