What is the Canton Fair

Canton Fair is a trade event held in Guangzhou, China twice a year. The fair has been around since 1957, also known as the China Import and Export Fair. It is the oldest and largest comprehensive international trading event in China. Still, it is China’s most successful international trade event. In 2023, buyers from 229 countries and regions reached 326,875 (onsite). The event generated an annual turnover of $49,691 million.

Where is the Canton Fair 2025 Held

Canton Fair location: NO.380 Yuejiang Zhong Lu, Guangzhou, China

Address in Chinese: 中国广州市海珠区阅江中路380号

What to expect in the Canton Fair

A wide variety of products: There will be a large range of products on display. A wide variety of product categories can meet your needs. You have complete freedom to select from the goods that meet your expectations.

Suppliers Diversity: The Canton Fair attracts a diverse range of suppliers, ranging from large manufacturers to small and medium-sized businesses. This diversity offers buyers a wide selection of sourcing options. Different exhibitors can fulfill different budgets, order quantities, and quality standards for you.

Product Demonstrations and Innovations: You can the latest innovations and technologies for yourself. Of course, you can learn more about product performance through product demonstrations and showcases.

Customization Opportunities: Many exhibitors at the Canton Fair offer customization services. So that buyers can tailor products to their specific requirements or preferences. 

Post-Fair Opportunities: The connections made and insights gained at the Canton Fair extend beyond the show itself. Buyers can place orders and create lasting relationships with suppliers after the fair. 

When is the Canton Fair 2025

The Canton Fair consists of both online and onsite components. The offline exhibitions are held in both the spring and autumn seasons. The spring session runs from April 15th to May 5th, while the autumn session takes place from October 15th to November 4th.

3 Different Phases of the Canton Fair Onsite 

The 135th Spring Canton Fair is divided into three phases, each catering to different industries and sectors. The exhibition period for each phase is 5 days, and normally opens from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the schedule arranged as follows:

The Canton Fair online

The online platform service time will be extended for a period of 6 months (from March 16th, 2025 to September 15th, 2025 )  

March 16th- April 14th: Merchants can browse exhibitors’ product information that has been uploaded and approved. Buyers can plan their exhibiting arrangements.

April 15th – May 5th: All features on the platform will be available for use 24 hours a day. However, the functions related to connecting with exhibitors online and scheduling appointments for negotiations will only be open during this period.

May 6th – September 15th: The online platform will enter a normal operational phase. All functions will remain open except for exhibitor connections and appointment scheduling.

How to attend the Canton Fair in five easy steps

Step 1: Make the necessary preparations

Before attending the Canton Fair, it’s crucial to make thorough preparations to ensure a productive and successful experience.

1. Consider what products you are interested 

The Canton Fair offers an endless kind of products, some of which you may not have even imagined. You even need to prepare a list of the products you require, or else you’ll find yourself overwhelmed by the novel and diverse products at the fair. Whether you’re looking for electronics, textiles, machinery, or other goods, having a clear understanding of your product preferences will help streamline your search.

2. Utilize the Canton Fair website to find possible vendors

Before the offline exhibition begins, it’s advisable to spend time on the Canton Fair’s official website searching for potential suppliers in your industry. The website offers a comprehensive exhibitor directory. You can browse through different categories and find suppliers. You should make a list of the 20-30 suppliers you plan to visit. Remember to note down their booth numbers in advance.

3. Prepare a list of questions

It’s essential to prepare a list of questions to ask exhibitors during your interactions at the fair. Consider inquiries related to product specifications, pricing, minimum order quantities, lead times, and any other relevant details. Having a thorough list of questions will help facilitate meaningful discussions. You will make the right decision by gathering all the necessary information. 

4. Prepare tons of business card

Don’t forget to bring plenty of business cards to exchange with exhibitors and fellow attendees. Every supplier you engage with will ask for your business card, so make sure you have no fewer than 200 cards on hand. Be sure to include essential contact information on your business cards, such as your name, title, company name, email address, and phone number.

5. Prepare a prepaid SIM card

If you’re planning to China, you might wonder how you can access websites and apps like Google, Facebook, and Instagram while you’re there. Some may choose to purchase a VPN, this can be expensive and unstable. In my view, The best choice is to buy a prepaid SIM card, which is easy and convenient even without a physical card. You can choose different packages according to your needs.

By making these necessary preparations before attending the Canton Fair, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the event and maximize your opportunities for successful business interactions.

Step 2: Apply for the Canton Fair invitation  

For overseas buyers, the invitation is the first step to attending the Canton Fair. With the invitation, overseas buyers can apply for a Chinese visa. 

The following will explain how to apply for the invitation letter.

1. Visit the Canton Fair website Click on the “Register” tab

2. Create an account by filling in the required information accurately.

3. Once logged in, navigate to the “Apply for Invitation”. Submit the necessary documents: your details, passport copy, and business

4. Await confirmation of your invitation via email or the online platform.

5. Once approved, you will receive your invitation letter, which may be used to apply for a visa to China if required.

Conseils: 

1. You can obtain an invitation letter from any vendor you are familiar with. Exhibitors of the Canton Fair can invite friends to attend the exhibition through three methods: invitation emails, exclusive invitation links, and invitation letters.

2. If you don’t want to register online, you can also spend 200rmb or 30 USD to register on-site at the Canton Fair.

Step 3: Get a Visa to China

If you are not from a country that has a visa-exempt policy with China, remember to allow a few weeks to apply for a Chinese visa. There are various types of Chinese visas, and you can usually apply for a business visa to attend the Canton Fair. Here is the most common source to obtain a business Visa:

First, you must ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months validity, a photograph for applying, and most importantly- an invitation card either from Canton Fair or a Chinese company. Make sure everything is ready, then apply online and fill in the required information accurately.

Tips: Holders of ordinary passports issued by the following countries may enter China without a visa as long as their visit does not exceed the visa-free period specified below.

Step 4: Register and obtain the buyer badge For the Canton Fair 2025

Step 5: Arrange your trip to Guangzhou, China, the host city of the Canton Fair

• Cost

Generally, Attending the Canton Fair might cost different amounts based on how you get there, where you stay, what you eat, and how you register.

If you have already registered for the Canton Fair in advance, it is free of charge in terms of registration, if you are not registered it will cost you 30usd to register at the site. Travel expenses include airfare, transportation, lodging, etc., which I will explain in detail in the following content.

• Route

You can choose to fly directly to Guangzhou or fly to Hong Kong first and then take a train to Guangzhou. The second way is cheaper and of course more exhausting, depending on your needs and financial situation.

Subway: 1 hour and 20 minutes from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport to the show, costing 8RMB or 1 USD.

Taxi: 1 hour and 10 minutes from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, costing 90 RMB or 13USD.

Pick-up service: Spending from 1,100 RMB or 150 USD per day 

Tips: Remember to use A Map or Baidu Maps instead of Google Maps in China.

• Accommodation

During the Canton Fair, hotels near the exhibition venue tend to be quite expensive, often requiring double the usual amount for booking. So, if you’re working with a limited budget, I suggest staying at hotels near subway stations a few stops away from the fair. You can then take the subway to the fair. Taking the subway may be faster and cheaper than taking a taxi. Moreover, when leaving the fair, it’s challenging to hail a taxi due to the high demand. So Taking the subway is a better choice.

How to make the best deal at Canton Fair

Step 1: Choose the proper suppliers

In your preparation, you find approximately 20-30 suppliers by browsing the Canton Fair website. However, on the day before the exhibition, remember to utilize the exhibitor list and map to plan your route for tomorrow’s visit. With the exhibition area expanded to 1.55 million square meters (16.7 million sq ft), planning your route can save time and ensure you visit your targeted suppliers within a day. Of course, some high-quality suppliers may not be listed on the website or may have been accidentally overlooked. In such cases, you may need to carefully browse the exhibition or exchange information with other buyers on the second day.

How to find a reliable supplier? I have the following suggestion for you:

1. evaluate communication

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful business relationship. When evaluating potential suppliers, pay close attention to their communication style, responsiveness, and willingness to address your inquiries promptly. Clear and transparent communication fosters trust and ensures that both of you are aligned on expectations and requirements.

2. focus on the products

The quality of the products offered by a supplier is a crucial factor in determining their reliability. Conduct thorough research and assessment of the products offered by potential suppliers. Pay attention to factors such as quality, durability, and consistency. Request samples or product demonstrations for a first-hand evaluation of the quality and suitability.

3. confirm accreditation

Accreditation and certifications are indicators of a supplier’s commitment to quality and compliance with industry standards. Be sure to verify the certifications and credentials held by potential suppliers. This will avoid unnecessary losses in the future.

4. check the track record

Ask your potential suppliers for information about their current and past customers. Contact them and ask about product quality, delivery timelines, and general impressions of the supplier. You can refer to these reviews to some extent to make an informed decision. Of course, you should not rely too much on these reviews; sometimes they can be misleading.

5. visit factories

A visit to a supplier’s factory or manufacturing facility can give you a first-hand view of their processes. The size of the factories and the level of product production largely determine the quality of the product. You’ll also get more in-depth information about the specifics of the product. So whenever possible, schedule a site visit to assess the supplier’s production capacity and infrastructure.

Step 2: Negotiate the best prices

Negotiating favorable prices is important to get the best deal at the Canton Fair. Before you start negotiating, do a lot of research on market prices and competitors’ offers. Have a general understanding of the prices of similar products from different exhibitors, and slowly negotiate prices on this basis. Remember to negotiate confidently and decisively, using your knowledge and market insights to gain favorable terms. Seek discounts, bulking pricing, or special promotions to maximize cost savings and profitability.

Step 3: Negotiate MOQs at the Canton Fair

At the Canton Fair, vendors may initially propose larger Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs), but you can negotiate the minimum order quantity based on your business needs and inventory requirements. Employing certain negotiation tactics can help you achieve the most satisfactory outcomes

Step 4: Communicate with suppliers after the Canton Fair

Communication with suppliers doesn’t end with the end of the Canton Fair; proactive communication fosters trust, transparency, and cooperation. Maintain ongoing communication with suppliers after the end of the Canton Fair to cultivate long-term partnerships. Follow up on negotiations in a timely manner, finalize orders, and confirm delivery times to ensure smooth and quick transactions. You can also be the first to consult with your supplier and solve problems if they arise in the aftermath.

Through the four basic steps outlined above, you can effectively assess potential suppliers, negotiate the best prices, and secure optimal deals. However, achieving these goals at the Canton Fair requires a significant investment of time and effort, and any misstep in the process can jeopardize the outcome. For those seeking to save time and achieve the best results, Get in touch with LienYiwu to find the best suppliers and products, negotiate prices, and purchase products that meet their satisfaction.

Canton Fair FAQs

Do I need an interpreter at the Canton Fair?

While many exhibitors at the Canton Fair have English-speaking staff and provide translated materials, having an interpreter can be immensely helpful, especially for detailed discussions or negotiations. An interpreter can ensure clear communication, help you navigate cultural nuances, and facilitate smoother interactions with suppliers.

What’s the most convenient payment method in China?

WeChat and Alipay are the most convenient payment methods in China.

Can I enter the fair with a tourist visa?

You can enter the Canton Fair with a tourist visa, but it’s advisable to obtain a business visa, which is valid for 5-10 years.

Conclusion

Here’s my understanding of the Canton Fair and some suggestions. If you import products from China, attending the Canton Fair offers numerous opportunities for businesses. It provides valuable insights into the Chinese manufacturing landscape and offers cost-effective methods for producing your products. Be ready to discover opportunities you may not have previously considered. If you want to find the best suppliers and most satisfactory products at the Canton Fair, get a personal agent now and contact them. We will definitely meet your needs.