Canton Fair: a visitor's guide

What it is

The China Import and Export Fair, known as the Canton Fair (广交会), is held in Guangzhou at the Canton Fair Complex in Pazhou. It takes place twice a year, in spring and autumn, and is one of the largest general trade fairs in China, with exhibitors across most industries.

Phases

Each session is divided into phases, and each phase covers different product groups (for example electronics and machinery, home and gifts, or textiles and fashion). Check which phase covers your products before you book travel; the dates and phases are on the official site and in our fairs directory.

Before you go

• Pre-register online as an overseas buyer on the official Canton Fair website to get your buyer badge; bring your passport.
• Check the visa rules for your nationality with the Chinese embassy or consulate; the fair can provide invitation letters for visa applications.
• Book a hotel early: prices in Guangzhou rise during the fair.
• Prepare a product list, target quantities and the specifications you need, and business cards.

At the fair

• Plan which halls to visit first; the complex is very large.
• Take photos of products and stands, and note the stand number with each supplier's card.
• Ask about MOQ, sample terms and lead times, not only prices.
• Treat prices at the fair as a starting point for a written quotation.

After the fair

Follow up within days while suppliers remember you. Send the same written specification to the suppliers you shortlisted, ask for formal quotations and samples, and verify each company before ordering.

Dates

See the Canton Fair pages in our China trade fairs directory for the current session dates and phases.

Canton Fair pages in the fairs directory

• Canton Fair: Spring 2027
• Canton Fair: Autumn 2027