Canton Fair Guide for Global Buyers

1. Overview

The China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) is the largest and longest-running international trade fair in China, held twice a year in Guangzhou. The fair attracts buyers from over 200 countries and regions, covering a wide range of industries including home appliances, home & living, textiles, construction materials, consumer electronics, and more.

2. Dates and Venue

Dates: The Canton Fair is held in three phases, each lasting 5 days, with different product categories exhibited in each phase.
Venue: China Import and Export Fair Complex, Pazhou, Guangzhou.

3. Visa and Travel Preparation

Visa: Most international buyers need a Chinese business visa (M visa). Prepare invitation letters, company documents, and itinerary in advance.
Transportation: Guangzhou is served by an international airport (Baiyun International Airport) and has convenient metro and taxi services. The fair complex is accessible via Metro Line 8.

4. Registration and Entry

Pre-registration: Register in advance on the official Canton Fair website to obtain a Buyer Badge.
On-site Registration: Bring your passport, invitation letter, and photo to collect your badge at the venue.
Entry Notes: Keep your badge safe, as it is valid throughout the fair.

5. Exhibition Phases & Key Products

Phase 1: Electronics & home appliances, hardware & tools, construction materials.
Phase 2: Home & living products, gifts, decorative items.
Phase 3: Textiles & garments, footwear, office supplies, food products.
👉 Choose the appropriate phase according to your sourcing goals.

6. How to Participate Efficiently

Plan Ahead: Check exhibitor lists and floor plans on the official website or app and create a schedule.
Set Clear Goals: List target product categories and budget.
Prepare for Communication: Bring business cards and prepare concise descriptions of your purchasing needs.
Language: Most exhibitors speak English, but preparing key industry terms in advance is helpful.

7. Post-Fair Follow-up

Organize Information: Record contacts, samples, and quotations of key exhibitors.
Communicate Promptly: Follow up via email or messaging apps after the fair.
Samples & Orders: Confirm sample quality before placing bulk orders to reduce risk.

8. Guangzhou Travel Tips

Accommodation: Stay near the fair complex to avoid traffic delays.
Food: Guangzhou is known as a “food capital” of China; try Cantonese cuisine and dim sum.
Payment: Mobile payments like Alipay/WeChat Pay are widely used; bring credit cards or international versions if needed.

9. Conclusion

The Canton Fair is not only the best platform for finding quality products and suppliers, but also a window to understand Chinese manufacturing and global trade trends. Proper preparation and efficient planning will help you maximize your gains from the fair.