Introduction
The Canton Fair in Guangzhou, China, is a global hub for sourcing and networking, attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually. This guide equips first-time business attendees with practical tips to maximize their experience at the 2025 Canton Fair, held at the Pazhou Complex.
Preparation Before Arrival
1. Register Online and Secure a Badge
Pre-register on the official Canton Fair website to skip long queues. Bring a printed invitation letter, passport, and business card to the Overseas Buyer Registration Office for your free, multi-entry badge.
- Tip: Keep your badge safe to avoid replacement hassles.
2. Research Exhibitors and Plan Your Visit
Use the Canton Fair app or website to identify suppliers by product category and booth number. The fair has three phases: Phase 1 (electronics, machinery), Phase 2 (consumer goods, decor), Phase 3 (textiles, office supplies).
- Tip: Create a daily itinerary with booth numbers and hall maps to navigate 60,000+ booths efficiently.
3. Visa and Travel Arrangements
Apply for a Chinese business visa (M-type) early. Book flights and hotels near metro Line 8 (e.g., Shangri-La, Westin) well in advance.
- Tip: Hotels fill up fast during the fair’s April/May or October/November sessions.
4. Pack Smart for Business
- Business Cards: Bring 200+ cards with English/Chinese details and WeChat QR codes. Be cautious about the email address you include, as it may receive unsolicited emails for years to come.
- Walking Shoes: Choose cushioned shoes for 20,000+ daily steps.
- Water Bottle: Carry a reusable bottle for refills.
- Notebook/Tablet: Record supplier details and prices.
- Portable Charger: Essential for long days (9:30 AM–6:00 PM).
- Light Backpack: For catalogs and samples.
- Translation App: Download Pleco or Baidu Translate for language support.
- Attire: Wear business casual with layers for Guangzhou’s humid spring (25–30°C) or cooler fall (20–25°C).
- Cash/Cards: Carry CNY for small purchases and a Visa/Mastercard.
5. Learn Basic Etiquette
Exchange business cards with both hands, read them briefly, and store respectfully. Use simple English and learn phrases like “Nihao” (hello) or “Xiexie” (thank you).
- Tip: Small gestures build rapport with exhibitors.
At the Canton Fair
1. Navigate the Venue Efficiently
The Pazhou Complex spans areas A, B, and C with 16 halls. Use free shuttles or walkways.
- Tip: Arrive early (8:30–9:00 AM) and focus on one or two halls daily.
2. Engage with Exhibitors Effectively
Ask about MOQ, lead times, certifications, and pricing. Take photos (with permission) and note booth numbers.
- Tip: Collect samples but be mindful of luggage weight.
3. Stay Connected and Safe
Use fair Wi-Fi or a VPN for secure communication. Add suppliers on WeChat for follow-ups.
- Tip: Scan QR codes on-site for instant contacts.
4. Manage Food and Hydration
Food courts offer Chinese, Western, and halal options (CNY 30–80/meal). Bring snacks and refill your water bottle.
- Tip: Save time with energy bars.
5. Attend Seminars and Networking Events
Check schedules for industry forums or matchmaking sessions via the Canton Fair app.
- Tip: Register early for high-demand events.
Post-Fair Follow-Up
1. Organize Contacts and Samples
Sort business cards and notes within 48 hours. Log details in a spreadsheet.
- Tip: Photograph cards to digitize them.
2. Follow Up with Suppliers
Send personalized WeChat/email messages within a week. Verify suppliers via platforms like Alibaba.
- Tip: Reference specific products discussed.
3. Plan Logistics
Research shipping terms (FOB, CIF) and import duties. Work with a freight forwarder.
- Tip: Check export/import regulations early.
Practical Tips for Guangzhou
1. Transportation
Use metro Line 8 (Xingangdong/Pazhou stations) or Didi. Carry the fair’s address in Chinese: 中国进出口商品交易会展馆.
- Tip: Download Didi’s English app.
2. Health and Safety
Wear a mask in crowds, carry sanitizer, and bring an umbrella for spring rain.
- Tip: Check weather forecasts.
3. Explore Guangzhou
Visit Canton Tower or Shamian Island. Try Cantonese cuisine like wonton noodles.
- Tip: Dine at Morgan’s Public House for networking.
Sample Daily Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00–9:00 AM | Arrive at Pazhou Complex, collect badge (Day 1) or enter |
| 9:00–12:00 PM | Visit priority booths in Area A/B, collect samples |
| 12:00–1:00 PM | Lunch at food court, review notes |
| 1:00–3:00 PM | Attend seminar or continue booth visits |
| 3:00–5:00 PM | Network, visit secondary booths |
| 5:00–6:00 PM | Organize materials, send quick WeChat follow-ups |
| Evening | Dinner, relax, or network locally |
Additional Notes
- Language Support: Hire an interpreter (CNY 500–1,000/day) if needed.
- Budget: Plan for CNY 200–500/day for food and transport.
- Sustainability: Highlight interest in eco-friendly products to attract suppliers.
Join Exclusive Canton Fair Events
Enhance your Canton Fair experience with these networking and learning opportunities:
- Global From Asia Canton Fair Trip: Join a guided trip for insider tips and networking. Check the latest schedule at cantonfair.globalfromasia.com.
- FBA4U Meetups: Attend two meetups each season during the Canton Fair for ecommerce sellers to connect and share strategies. Details at fba4u.com.
- Cross Border Summit: During the Fall Canton Fair (November 3–5, 2025), join the Cross Border Summit in Chiang Mai, Thailand, a 2-hour flight south. Network with top ecommerce sellers and brand owners. Learn more at crossbordersummit.com.