The Canton Fair, also known as the China Import and Export Fair, is the world’s largest trade show and a key event for international business. This comprehensive guide will help you prepare for the 2025 edition, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned attendee.
What is the Canton Fair?
The Canton Fair is China’s largest and most influential trade event, established in 1957. Held twice yearly in Guangzhou, it has grown to cover an impressive 1.55 million square meters of exhibition space [1]. The fair attracts over 246,000 buyers from 215 countries and features 25,000 exhibitors showcasing products across 13 categories and 55 sections [1].
Canton Fair 2025 Dates and Phases
The 137th Canton Fair will run in three phases, each focusing on different product categories:
Phase 1 (April 15-19, 2025)
- Electronics and electrical products
- Household appliances
- Machinery and industrial equipment
- Hardware tools
- New energy products
- Vehicles and auto parts [1] [3] [6]
Phase 2 (April 23-27, 2025)
- Building decoration materials
- Furniture and kitchenware
- Home decorations
- Daily ceramics
- Household items
- Gifts and premiums
- Holiday items [1] [3] [6]
Phase 3 (May 1-5, 2025)
- Textiles and clothing
- Footwear
- Office supplies
- Luggage
- Food products
- Healthcare products
- Medical equipment
- Pet products
- Toys and children’s products [1] [3] [6]
How to Register for the Canton Fair
Registration for the Canton Fair is straightforward:
- Create a buyer account: Visit the official Buyer Service System (buyer.cantonfair.org.cn) and select “Overseas buyer registration” [1]
- Complete your profile: Fill out your company information accurately for verification purposes [1]
- Get your badge: Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation. Your Buyer Badge is required for entry and can be collected at:
- Partner hotel registration offices
- Baiyun International Airport terminals
- Pazhou Ferry Terminal
- Canton Fair Complex registration offices [1]
Pro tip: First-time visitors who complete pre-registration get their Buyer Badge for free, saving the 200 RMB service fee [1].
Preparing for Your Visit
Visa Requirements
Before traveling to China, you’ll need:
- A valid business (M) visa
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Two passport-sized photos
- Official Canton Fair invitation (obtained through the Buyer E-Service Tool)
- Your business card with company details [1]
Accommodation
Hotels near the Pazhou Complex range from $50 to $210 per night. For convenient access:
- The Westin Pazhou and Shangri-La Guangzhou connect directly to the exhibition halls
- Hotels in Tianhe business district offer more affordable options with metro access
- Book early, as the best hotels fill up quickly [1]
Transportation
The Guangzhou Metro is the most efficient way to reach the complex:
- For Area A: Take Exit A at Xingangdong Station
- For Areas B and C: Use Pazhou Station exits A/B and C
From Baiyun International Airport, options include:
- Metro: Line 3 to Line 8 (43 minutes, 8 RMB)
- Shuttle Bus: Direct service every 30 minutes (25 RMB)
- Taxi: About 60 minutes travel time [1]
Tips for First-Time Attendees
1. Stay Focused
The Canton Fair is enormous. Instead of trying to see everything:
- Focus on your specific product interests
- If you have a product in mind, stay in that area
- If exploring new opportunities, at least narrow down potential niches [5]
2. Plan Ahead
With over 60,000 booths, planning is essential:
- Use the official Canton Fair app to map your route
- Research exhibitors before attending
- Arrive early (around 8:30 AM) to avoid crowds
- Prepare a list of suppliers you want to meet [6]
3. Be Prepared for Networking
Bring plenty of business cards and be ready to connect:
- Aim for at least 100 business cards to share with suppliers
- Carry a floor plan of the venue to navigate efficiently
- Download the Canton Fair app for real-time information [1] [6]
4. Connect with Market Leaders
Large factories usually secure prime locations at the fair:
- Introduce yourself and make your goals clear
- Ask about main customers from your country
- Inquire about popular models and ordering patterns
- Learn about exclusive contract opportunities [5]
5. Collect Samples
On the last day of each phase, you can often purchase or receive factory samples:
- These may include new products or prototypes
- Physical samples are invaluable for testing quality
- They can be used for marketing, photos, and pre-orders [5]
Navigating the Canton Fair Complex
The Pazhou Complex is divided into three main areas:
- Area A: Eight exhibition halls (1-8)
- Area B: Five halls (9-13)
- Area C: Three halls (14-16)
The booth numbering system is straightforward: A2.15 means Zone A, Hall 2, Booth 15 [1].
Making the Most of Your Visit
Use the Official App
The Canton Fair app is essential for navigating the fair efficiently:
- Handle pre-registration and badge collection
- Chat with exhibitors
- Look up product information
- Find matching suppliers
- Plan your daily schedule [1]
Explore Thoroughly
- Walk through each row in your niche
- Don’t miss corner booths or booths in aisles between sections
- Pay attention to “meter by meter” booths shared by smaller suppliers, who often offer lower prices [5]
Ask Questions
If you can’t find what you’re looking for:
- Remember each booth represents an entire factory
- Many factories can produce custom items
- Don’t hesitate to show samples from your market and ask if they can replicate them [5]
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I allocate for visiting the Canton Fair?
Most visitors find that two days per relevant phase are sufficient. Use the first day to talk to as many suppliers as possible and create a shortlist. On the second day, follow up with the most promising suppliers for more in-depth discussions [1].
What’s the recommended dress code?
Opt for smart-casual attire that’s comfortable and breathable. Wear well-broken-in, comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking several kilometers daily [1].
Do I need to register separately for each phase?
No, once you have your buyer’s badge, it grants access to all three phases of the Canton Fair. You simply need to ensure your travel and accommodation arrangements cover the duration of the phases you wish to attend [6].
The Canton Fair represents an unparalleled opportunity to connect with suppliers, discover new products, and grow your business. With proper planning and preparation, you can make the most of this world-class trade event and establish valuable relationships that will benefit your business for years to come.
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