Canton Fair : World's Biggest Fair

Introduction: What is the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair, officially known as the China Import and Export Fair, is the largest and longest-running trade fair in China. Since its establishment in 1957, it has become a world-class business platform where thousands of manufacturers, suppliers, and international buyers meet to exchange opportunities, build partnerships, and sign trade deals.

Held twice a year in Guangzhou, China, the Canton Fair is often referred to as the “barometer of China’s foreign trade”, showcasing the country’s economic growth and global business influence.

👉 Visit the official Canton Fair information portal: CantonFair.net

1. History and Evolution of the Canton Fair

The Canton Fair started in Spring 1957 as the Exhibition of Chinese Export Commodities, with the goal of promoting Chinese goods to the international market.

At the time, raw materials made up more than 70% of exports, but as China industrialized, the focus shifted towards manufactured goods, electronics, machinery, textiles, and innovative technologies.

Key milestones:

1957 – First Canton Fair held at the China-Soviet Friendship Building, Guangzhou.
1970s–1990s – Expansion of categories, including light industrial goods, home appliances, and machinery.
2000s – Introduction of import exhibitions, opening the fair to overseas companies.
Today – The fair covers 16 major industries across 51 exhibition sections, hosted at the massive Pazhou Complex.

2. Venue: The Canton Fair Complex (Pazhou Complex)

The China Import and Export Fair Complex, also called the Pazhou Complex, is one of the largest exhibition centers in the world, covering 1.7 million square meters of floor space.

📍 Location: Pazhou Island, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.

🚇 How to Get There:

Take Metro Line 8 or 11 → Exit at Pazhou Station.
Shuttle buses run from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport directly to the fairgrounds.

The venue features state-of-the-art facilities, multiple exhibition halls, international service zones, and logistics centers, making it an ideal meeting place for businesses.

More details: Canton Fair Complex Guide.

3. Canton Fair Dates & Phases

The Canton Fair is held every Spring (April–May) and Autumn (October–November). Each edition is divided into three phases, each focusing on specific industries and product categories.

📅 Canton Fair Spring Session (April–May)

Phase 1 (April 15–19) – Electronics, machinery, vehicles, hardware, tools, building materials, new energy.
Phase 2 (April 23–27) – Household items, furniture, consumer goods, gifts, interior décor.
Phase 3 (May 1–5) – Textiles, clothing, footwear, office supplies, food, health products.

📅 Canton Fair Autumn Session (October–November)

Phase 1 (October 15–19) – Industrial products, electronics, lighting, construction materials.
Phase 2 (October 23–27) – Home décor, gifts, daily consumer products, kitchenware, furniture.
Phase 3 (October 31–November 4) – Apparel, medical devices, textiles, shoes, bags, and food products.

👉 See the full Canton Fair schedule: Canton Fair Dates.

4. Organizers of the Canton Fair

The fair is co-organized by:

Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM)
Guangdong Provincial People’s Government
China Foreign Trade Centre (CFTC)

This ensures government support, global outreach, and high credibility for both buyers and suppliers.

5. Why Attend the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair is not just a trade exhibition—it’s a gateway to global opportunities.

✅ Benefits for International Buyers

Access to 25,000+ quality suppliers across industries.
Face-to-face negotiation with verified manufacturers.
Discover latest products and innovations before they reach the market.
Convenient sourcing across multiple industries in one location.

✅ Benefits for Exhibitors

Reach 200,000+ global buyers from 200+ countries.
Expand into new international markets.
Showcase new products on the world stage.
Build long-term trade partnerships.

👉 Explore: Why Attend the Canton Fair.

6. Registration, Visa & Invitation

🛂 Visa Application

Foreign visitors need a Chinese Business Visa (M Visa). To apply, you’ll need an official invitation letter from the Canton Fair.

📌 How to Get an Invitation Letter:

Register on the Buyer E-service Tool (BEST).
Apply through Chinese embassies/consulates.
Request via Canton Fair’s Hong Kong office or authorized partners.

🎟️ Buyer Badge

Mandatory for entry.
Can be applied for online or collected at registration counters.
One-time registration valid for multiple sessions.

More details: Canton Fair Registration Guide.

7. Transportation & Accommodation

🚖 Getting to the Canton Fair Complex

Metro Line 8 & 11 – Direct access to Pazhou Station.
Airport Shuttle – Buses run from Baiyun Airport to major hotels near the fair.
Taxi & Ride-hailing apps – Widely available in Guangzhou.

🏨 Recommended Hotels Near Canton Fair

The Westin Pazhou – Luxury hotel connected directly to the fairground.
Langham Place Guangzhou – 5-star comfort close to the venue.
Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe – Premium business-friendly hotel.
Budget options – Hotels in Haizhu and Tianhe districts.

Hotel bookings fill quickly—reserve at least 3 months in advance.

👉 See Canton Fair Hotel Recommendations.

8. Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pre-register online to save time.
Bring plenty of business cards (English & Chinese).
Use translation apps for smoother communication.
Wear comfortable shoes – the venue is massive.
Plan your phase carefully to match your business needs.
Stay updated on Canton Fair news for schedule changes.

The Canton Fair in Guangzhou remains the largest international trade exhibition in China and a must-visit for any business looking to source products, find manufacturers, or enter the Chinese market.

By planning ahead—choosing the right phase, securing your invitation letter, booking accommodation, and preparing for business negotiations—you can maximize your success at the world’s most influential trade fair.

👉 Start planning your visit today at CantonFair.net.

FAQs

1. When is the next Canton Fair 2025?
The Canton Fair 2025 will be held in two sessions: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (October–November), each split into three phases.

2. Where is the Canton Fair held?
It takes place at the Canton Fair Complex (Pazhou Complex) in Guangzhou, China—one of the largest exhibition centers in the world.

3. How can I register for the Canton Fair?
Buyers must pre-register online via the Buyer E-Service Tool (BEST) or register on-site. A Buyer Badge is required for entry.

4. Do I need a visa to attend the Canton Fair?
Yes, international visitors need a Chinese Business Visa (M Visa). An invitation letter from the Canton Fair is required for visa application.

5. What industries are covered in the Canton Fair?
The fair covers 16 industries and 51 sections, including electronics, machinery, textiles, furniture, consumer goods, and health products.

6. What hotels are recommended near the Canton Fair?
Popular hotels include The Westin Pazhou, Langham Place Guangzhou, and Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe. Book early as demand is high.

Canton Fair : World’s Biggest Fair

Introduction: What is the Canton Fair?

1. History and Evolution of the Canton Fair

2. Venue: The Canton Fair Complex (Pazhou Complex)