Curious about the Canton Fair and what makes it such a major event in global trade? The Canton Fair is the largest trade show in China, connecting thousands of buyers and suppliers from around the world twice a year in Guangzhou. 

Whether the goal is to find new products, meet reliable suppliers, or explore the latest trends in manufacturing, the Canton Fair offers endless opportunities for businesses of all sizes. 

This comprehensive guide answers the most common questions about the Canton Fair and provides practical tips for making the most of your visit. 

Interested in learning more about sourcing, buying, and manufacturing in China? Read on for expert advice and helpful resources.

What Is the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair, officially called the China Import and Export Fair, began in 1957 in Guangzhou, China. It was created to help people from all over the world buy and sell products. Today, it’s held twice a year and attracts visitors from more than 200 countries.

People call the Canton Fair the biggest trade show in China because it is truly massive. Imagine thousands of booths and products from nearly every industry you can think of, all under one roof. 

It’s the perfect place to find new business opportunities and see the latest trends.

You can find almost everything at the Canton Fair, such as:

• Electronics and gadgets
• Toys and sports equipment
• Clothing and fashion accessories
• Home goods and furniture
• Tools, machinery, and more

Why Is the Canton Fair Important for Global Trade?

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The Canton Fair is like a giant meeting place where buyers and sellers from around the world come together. 

If you want to start importing goods from China, this is the place to do it. It’s a trusted event for making deals, comparing prices, and checking the quality of products up close.

Many businesses rely on the Canton Fair to discover the best manufacturers and products. It’s a great way to build relationships and understand how business in China really works.

📖 Also read: How to Find Suppliers in China

Who Should Attend the Canton Fair?

Wondering if the Canton Fair is right for you? This section explains who benefits the most from attending and what you’ll find there.

The Canton Fair is perfect for:

• Business owners looking for new products or suppliers
• Importers and exporters wanting to expand their product range
• Startups searching for unique ideas or low-cost manufacturing
• Retailers hoping to spot the next big trend

You’ll also find plenty of experts and resources if you want to learn more about sourcing or how Chinese factories work.

📖 Also read: Chinese Factories: What You Need to Know

How to Register for the Canton Fair

Getting registered is your first step to attending the Canton Fair. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready to go.

Registering for the Canton Fair is simple if you follow these steps:

• Go to the Canton Fair’s official website and create an account as a buyer.
• Fill out your business details and upload your photo.
• Request your invitation letter, which you’ll need for your visa application.
• Apply for your buyer badge, which lets you enter the fairgrounds.

You’ll need:

• Passport
• Business card
• Company information
• Invitation letter from the Canton Fair

It’s a good idea to register online before you arrive, so you can save time and pick up your badge in person when you get to Guangzhou.

How to Get a Chinese Visa for the Canton Fair

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Before you can attend the Canton Fair in person, you’ll need a Chinese business visa. Here’s what you need to know about the process.

To attend the Canton Fair, you’ll need a Chinese business visa, usually called an “M” visa. Here’s how to get one:

• Request an invitation letter from the Canton Fair during registration.
• Fill out the visa application on your local Chinese embassy or consulate’s website.
• Submit your invitation letter, passport, and application form.
• Wait for approval.

It’s smart to apply at least one month before the fair starts. Double-check your documents before submitting them, and if you’re unsure about anything, ask the Canton Fair’s help desk for guidance.

What to Expect at the Canton Fair: Exhibitor and Visitor Experience

Attending the Canton Fair is an exciting experience with a lot to see and do. Here’s what you can expect once you arrive.

The Canton Fair is held at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou. The venue is huge, with different zones for each product category:

• Electronics
• Textiles
• Home goods
• International Pavilion for suppliers from other countries

To make the most of your visit:

• Use the fair’s map to plan your route
• Wear comfortable shoes because there’s a lot of walking
• Take notes or photos of booths you like

You’ll also find:

• Free Wi-Fi in most areas
• Food courts with Chinese and international food
• Translation services if you need help with Mandarin

Top Tips for First-Time Canton Fair Visitors

If you’ve never attended before, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some tips to help you have a successful and enjoyable visit.

Preparation is key for a successful visit. Here’s what to do:

• Make a list of products or suppliers you want to see
• Print plenty of business cards
• Set up meetings with suppliers ahead of time if possible

Remember to bring:

• Business cards
• Notebook or tablet for notes
• Backpack for samples and brochures
• Comfortable shoes and business casual clothes

To get the most out of your visit, introduce yourself to booth staff, ask questions about products and prices, and don’t be shy about negotiating.

📖 Also read:How to Buy Products from China

How to Find and Evaluate Suppliers at the Canton Fair

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Finding the right supplier is one of the main reasons people attend the Canton Fair. Here’s how you can make smart choices and avoid common mistakes.

• Visit several booths to compare products and prices
• Ask for samples and catalogs
• Check supplier credentials and business licenses

When talking with exhibitors:

• Be clear about what you want
• Don’t rush into agreements, take your time
• Ask for a translator if you need help with the language

To avoid scams, only deal with official booths inside the fair. Ask for references or, if possible, visit the supplier’s factory. Always read contracts carefully before signing anything.

📖 Also read: China Contract Manufacturing: What to Know

Online Canton Fair: Digital Options for Remote Buyers

Can’t travel to China? The Canton Fair also offers a digital platform so you can attend from anywhere in the world.

If you can’t travel to China, you can still attend the Canton Fair online. The digital platform lets you:

• Browse products and suppliers
• Chat with exhibitors in real time
• Watch live demonstrations

To join virtually, register on the Canton Fair’s official website and log in during the fair dates. You can schedule online meetings with suppliers and explore virtual booths. 

The online fair is convenient and saves travel costs, but you won’t be able to see products in person.

Final Thoughts

The Canton Fair offers unmatched opportunities for global trade and product sourcing. If you’re serious about importing from China, it’s a must-visit event whether you attend in person or online.

If you’re thinking about hiring in China for your sourcing or business needs, you might also like to read this article: Recruitment in China: Tips and Insights

Frequently Asked Questions About the Canton Fair

Where is the Canton Fair in 2025?

The Canton Fair in 2025 will take place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China. This location has been the home of the fair for many years and is well-equipped for international visitors. You can expect modern facilities and easy access from hotels and airports.

How many times a year is the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair is held twice each year, once in the spring and once in the autumn. Each session is divided into three phases, with different product categories featured in each phase. This schedule gives buyers and sellers multiple opportunities to connect throughout the year.

What do you wear to the Canton Fair?

Most visitors choose business casual clothing and comfortable shoes, since there is a lot of walking involved. The venue is air-conditioned, so a light jacket can be helpful. Dressing professionally also makes a good impression when meeting suppliers and business partners.

Where to stay for the Canton Fair?

There are many hotels near the Canton Fair Complex, ranging from budget to luxury options. It’s best to book your hotel early because rooms fill up quickly during the fair. Many hotels offer free shuttle buses to the venue, making transportation easy.

How big is the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair is one of the largest trade fairs in the world, covering more than 1.1 million square meters of exhibition space. With over 60,000 booths and nearly 25,000 exhibitors, it’s easy to see why people call it massive. You’ll want to plan your visit to make the most of your time there.