Canton Fair Guide & Assistance

Get the most out of the world's largest trade fair with a local team by your side

Canton Fair 2026 - trade fair for importing from China

What is the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair, officially known as the China Import and Export Fair, is the largest and oldest trade fair in China. Held twice a year in Guangzhou (Spring: April, Autumn: October), it attracts over 25,000 exhibitors and 200,000 buyers from around the world.

The fair is a massive showcase of Chinese manufacturing capabilities, covering virtually every product category from electronics and machinery to textiles, furniture, and consumer goods. For importers, it is one of the best opportunities to meet suppliers face-to-face, compare products and prices, and discover new trends and innovations.

However, the sheer scale of the Canton Fair can be overwhelming. The exhibition halls span over 1.18 million square meters across three phases, with thousands of booths in each phase. Without preparation and local support, visitors often waste valuable time and miss the most relevant suppliers for their needs.

Fair Schedule & Phases

The Canton Fair is divided into three phases, each covering different product categories

Phase 1 (5 days)

Electronics, electrical products, machinery, vehicles, hardware, tools, building materials, lighting, and chemical products. This phase is typically the busiest and attracts the most international buyers.

Phase 2 (5 days)

Consumer goods, home decorations, gifts, kitchenware, ceramic products, furniture, textiles, garments, shoes, and personal care products. Particularly popular with retailers and e-commerce sellers.

Phase 3 (5 days)

Textiles and garments, shoes, office supplies, sporting goods, medical devices, health products, and food products. Often less crowded, which can mean more focused conversations with suppliers.

Location: China Import and Export Fair Complex, No. 380 Yuejiang Zhong Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou

Spring Fair: Typically mid-April to early May

Autumn Fair: Typically mid-October to early November

Exact dates are announced several months in advance. Contact us for the latest schedule.

How We Help at the Canton Fair

Pre-Fair Planning

Before you arrive, we review your product requirements and identify which phases and halls are most relevant. We create a targeted visit plan so you spend your time at the booths that matter, not wandering the massive exhibition halls.

On-Site Translation

Our bilingual team members accompany you to the fair, providing real-time Chinese-English translation during supplier meetings. Clear communication at this stage prevents costly misunderstandings later.

Negotiation Support

We help you negotiate prices, MOQs, and terms directly with exhibitors. Our knowledge of current market pricing means you do not overpay, and our market knowledge helps you get the best terms.

Supplier Follow-Up

The real work often begins after the fair. We follow up with suppliers you expressed interest in, request samples, verify company details, and continue negotiations to finalize deals.

Market Visits

During your time in Guangzhou, we can arrange visits to relevant wholesale markets and factory showrooms outside the fair for additional sourcing opportunities.

Logistics Support

We help with practical matters like hotel recommendations near the fair complex, transportation arrangements, SIM card purchase, and restaurant suggestions so your visit runs smoothly.

Tips for Canton Fair Visitors

  • Register in advance. Buyer registration can be done online before the fair. Bring your passport and business cards.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. You will walk several kilometers per day across the exhibition halls. Comfort is more important than style.
  • Bring a rolling bag. You will collect catalogs, samples, and business cards. A rolling bag saves your shoulders.
  • Prepare a product specification sheet. Having your requirements clearly written (ideally with images) makes conversations with suppliers much more productive.
  • Do not place orders on the spot. Collect information, compare options, and verify suppliers after the fair. The best deals come from informed decisions, not impulse buying.
  • Take photos and notes at each booth. After visiting 50+ booths, they will all blur together. Document everything systematically.
  • Focus on a few product categories. Trying to cover everything is impossible. Identify your priority products and dedicate your time there.
  • Arrive when the fair opens. Morning hours are less crowded, and supplier representatives are more energetic and available for detailed discussions.
  • Stay near the fair complex. Hotels in Haizhu and Pazhou districts are closest. Book well in advance as they fill up quickly.
  • Have a local phone number. Many suppliers prefer to communicate via WeChat. Having a Chinese SIM card makes this easy.

Attending the Next Canton Fair?

Let us help you make the most of your visit. Contact us to arrange fair assistance, translation support, and post-fair follow-up.