Canton Fair, officially known as the China Import and Export Fair, is the largest and most established trade exhibition in China. It is recognized globally as a meeting ground for manufacturers, exporters, and international buyers seeking to establish partnerships and explore new products. Each year, the event brings together hundreds of thousands of participants from more than 200 countries, making it a true hub for global commerce.
For 2025, the Canton Fair is expected to be even more dynamic, with both in-person exhibitions in Guangzhou and digital opportunities through its online platform.
This article covers everything you need to know, from the fair’s history and location to registration, travel arrangements, and insider tips for a smooth and rewarding experience.
What is the Canton Fair?
The Canton Fair is China’s oldest and most influential trade show, launched in 1957 and continuously held for decades. It serves as a barometer for China’s international trade growth, highlighting new industries, innovative products, and emerging suppliers.
Unlike smaller regional trade fairs, the Canton Fair is truly comprehensive. It showcases thousands of categories, from basic consumer goods and household products to advanced electronics, renewable energy solutions, and medical technologies. For many companies, it is the ultimate sourcing event where one can compare suppliers, negotiate deals directly, and build long-term relationships.
The fair also plays a strategic role in connecting China’s manufacturing strengths with global demand. For small businesses and first-time buyers, it provides direct access to trusted suppliers. For larger enterprises, it helps streamline procurement processes and stay competitive in fast-moving markets.
Where is the Canton Fair Celebrated?
The Canton Fair is celebrated in Guangzhou, one of China’s most important commercial and industrial cities. The event is hosted at the China Import and Export Fair Complex, commonly called the Pazhou Complex, which is among the largest exhibition centers in Asia.
Covering over 1.1 million square meters of floor space, the venue is designed to accommodate hundreds of thousands of visitors across its three phases. Each phase is allocated to specific industries, ensuring buyers can focus on relevant categories without being overwhelmed by unrelated exhibits.
Guangzhou itself adds value to the experience. As the capital of Guangdong Province, the city is a gateway to China’s Pearl River Delta manufacturing hub, making it perfectly situated for international trade. Visitors not only gain business opportunities but also experience a culturally rich city with a mix of historic landmarks, modern skyscrapers, and culinary delights.
Canton Fair 2025 Dates
The Canton Fair is held twice each year, once in spring (typically mid-April to early May) and once in autumn (mid-October to early November). Each session is divided into three distinct phases, with each phase spanning about five days.
- Phase 1: Electronics, electrical appliances, building materials, vehicles, and machinery. This phase usually attracts buyers in engineering, industrial, and technology-related sectors.
- Phase 2: Household goods, consumer products, toys, gifts, and decorations. This phase is popular with retailers and importers focusing on everyday use products.
- Phase 3: Apparel, textiles, footwear, medical products, food, and office supplies. This phase connects global wholesalers and distributors with China’s robust textile and health product sectors.
For 2025, the specific schedule will be confirmed on the official Canton Fair website closer to the event. However, attendees are encouraged to prepare well in advance.
With visitor numbers often exceeding 200,000 per session, early flight and hotel bookings are strongly recommended to secure both affordability and convenience.
How to Register for the Canton Fair
Registering for the Canton Fair is a straightforward but essential process to ensure smooth entry. International buyers should follow these steps:
1. Create an Account on the Official Portal
Visit the official Canton Fair website and create a buyer’s account. The system requires details such as your company’s name, nature of business, contact information, and sometimes a company license or certificate.
2. Submit the Required Documents
Typically, international buyers need to provide a scanned copy of their passport and business credentials. If you are attending for the first time, applying for an invitation letter is highly recommended, as it simplifies the process of obtaining a Chinese business visa.
3. Obtain an Invitation Letter
The invitation letter is a crucial document for visa applications. It can be downloaded online once your registration is approved. Some embassies even require this document before granting entry permits.
4. Collect Your Buyer’s Badge
After arriving in Guangzhou, you must collect your Buyer’s Badge, also known as the Entry Badge. This badge grants access to the exhibition halls. It can be picked up at designated counters at the Pazhou Complex or in selected hotels across the city. Without this badge, entry into the fair is not permitted.
Being well-prepared with the correct paperwork avoids last-minute issues and ensures a seamless start to your visit.
Canton Fair Online Platform Access
In addition to the in-person event, the Canton Fair offers a sophisticated online platform that complements the physical exhibition. This hybrid approach makes the fair accessible to businesses that may face travel restrictions or prefer remote participation.
The online platform allows buyers to:
- Browse thousands of virtual booths with detailed product descriptions.
- Watch live product demonstrations and presentations by exhibitors.
- Schedule one-on-one video meetings for real-time negotiations.
- Download catalogs and brochures for future reference.
- Access supplier information year-round, not just during the fair.
For 2025, the digital platform is expected to expand with enhanced search tools, AI-driven product recommendations, and improved translation features to bridge language gaps.
This makes it an excellent option for small and medium-sized businesses in the USA, UK, and Canada who may not be able to attend in person but still want access to Chinese suppliers.
Canton Fair Exhibitor Registration Fee
For exhibitors, participating in the Canton Fair requires payment of booth fees. The amount varies depending on the booth type, size, and location within the exhibition halls.
- Standard Booths: These provide basic facilities and are more budget-friendly, making them ideal for smaller businesses testing the international market.
- Premium Booths: Located in high-traffic areas, premium booths come at a higher cost but offer better visibility and larger display space.
In addition to booth rental, exhibitors must budget for booth design and construction, shipment of display products, promotional materials, staff accommodation, and travel expenses.
While costs can add up, the exposure to international buyers often delivers a strong return on investment. Many exhibitors report building lasting partnerships that extend well beyond the fair.
Buyers, on the other hand, typically do not pay registration fees but should prepare for travel, accommodation, and visa-related expenses.
Canton Fair Transportation from Airport
Traveling from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport to the Canton Fair venue is convenient thanks to the city’s modern infrastructure. Options include:
- Metro: The metro is the most affordable way to travel. From the airport, take Line 3 to Kecun Station, then transfer to Line 8, which stops directly at Pazhou Station, right next to the fair complex.
- Shuttle Buses: During the fair, shuttle buses operate between major hotels and the venue, making it easier for groups or first-time visitors.
- Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Taxis are readily available, but apps like Didi (China’s equivalent of Uber) provide a more reliable experience with upfront pricing.
- Private Transfers: Many hotels and travel agencies offer private car rentals or chauffeur-driven vehicles for added comfort and time efficiency.
Planning your transportation in advance saves valuable time and ensures you arrive at the fair on schedule without unnecessary stress.
Best Restaurants Near the Canton Fair
Food is an essential part of the Canton Fair experience, and Guangzhou is world-famous for its Cantonese cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a mix of local and international dining options around the Pazhou Complex:
- Local Cantonese Dining: Try signature dishes such as dim sum, roasted goose, or fresh seafood at nearby restaurants. Cantonese cuisine is known for its delicate flavors and emphasis on fresh ingredients.
- Affordable Meals: Inside the exhibition center and nearby malls, food courts offer a wide selection of quick meals, ideal for busy fair days. These include both Chinese fast food and international options like pizza and sandwiches.
- High-End Dining: Many of the hotels around the complex, including international chains, feature fine-dining restaurants serving global cuisine. These are perfect for hosting business dinners or casual networking over meals.
Exploring Guangzhou’s culinary scene not only makes your trip enjoyable but also provides an excellent way to build relationships with clients and suppliers.
Travel Tips for Canton Fair Visitors
To maximize your visit to the Canton Fair 2025, proper planning is essential. Here are some practical tips:
- Book Accommodation Early: Hotels near the Pazhou Complex are in high demand. Booking at least two to three months in advance ensures better prices and proximity to the venue.
- Carry Business Essentials: Bring plenty of business cards, product brochures, and digital presentations. A portable power bank is also useful for long exhibition days.
- Stay Connected: Consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport for stable internet access. Wi-Fi at the venue can get congested due to the high number of attendees.
- Language and Communication: While many exhibitors speak English, downloading a translation app or hiring an interpreter can help smoothen negotiations.
- Cultural Etiquette: Dress formally, be punctual, and respect Chinese cultural norms. Small gestures like accepting business cards with both hands leave a positive impression.
With these tips, your trip becomes not just a business venture but also a rewarding international experience.
Whether you attend in person in Guangzhou or connect digitally through the online platform, the Canton Fair 2025 is not just another trade show—it’s a gateway to global opportunities.
FAQs
1. What is the Canton Fair?
The Canton Fair, also known as the China Import and Export Fair, is the largest international trade exhibition in China. Held in Guangzhou since 1957, it brings together thousands of global buyers and exhibitors showcasing products across multiple industries, from electronics and machinery to textiles and home goods.
2. When is the Canton Fair 2025 scheduled?
Canton Fair 2025 will be held in three phases, as usual:
- Phase 1: Covers electronics, machinery, and construction materials.
- Phase 2: Focuses on consumer goods, gifts, and home décor.
- Phase 3: Features textiles, clothing, medical products, and office supplies.
Exact dates are typically announced months before the event, so visitors are encouraged to check the official Canton Fair website for updates.
3. Where is the Canton Fair celebrated?
The Canton Fair takes place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex (Pazhou Complex) in Guangzhou, China. The venue is one of the largest exhibition centers in the world and is easily accessible via metro, bus, and shuttle services from airports and hotels.
4. How can I register for Canton Fair 2025?
Registration for Canton Fair 2025 can be completed online through the official Canton Fair website. International visitors need to apply for a buyer badge by submitting valid identification and business credentials. Onsite registration is also available but registering in advance saves time and ensures quicker entry.
5. Is there an online platform for Canton Fair?
Yes, the Canton Fair offers a digital platform called the Canton Fair Online. This allows buyers and sellers who cannot attend in person to explore products, connect with exhibitors, and place orders virtually. It provides an excellent option for global trade without physical travel.
6. What are the exhibitor registration fees at Canton Fair?
The exhibitor registration fee varies depending on the booth size, product category, and location within the exhibition halls. Prices are generally higher for prime locations and specialized pavilions. Detailed fee structures are shared on the official Canton Fair website before each session.
7. How do I get to Canton Fair from the airport?
Travelers can reach the Canton Fair from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport using multiple transport options:
- Metro Line 3 connects directly to the venue.
- Airport express buses run to major city areas near the fairgrounds.
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps offer direct service but may be more expensive during fair dates.
8. What are the best restaurants near the Canton Fair?
Popular restaurants near the Canton Fair include Prego (The Westin Pazhou) for Italian cuisine, Jiang by Chef Fei for Michelin-starred Cantonese dining, and RongEra for a riverside experience. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Cantonese dim sum at Panxi Restaurant.
9. What travel tips should visitors keep in mind for Canton Fair 2025?
Visitors should:
- Book hotels early as accommodations near the Pazhou Complex fill up fast.
- Carry business cards since networking is a key part of the fair.
- Wear comfortable shoes due to the large exhibition area.
- Use translation apps if you don’t speak Mandarin.
- Plan transport routes in advance to avoid traffic delays.
10. Why should I attend Canton Fair 2025?
Attending the Canton Fair provides a unique opportunity to source quality products directly from Chinese manufacturers, build global partnerships, and discover industry trends. It’s considered one of the most cost-effective and influential trade shows in the world, attracting buyers from over 200 countries.
