Canton Fair is where globalsourcing decisions are made.
If you're sourcing from China, expanding your product line, or building a brand, Canton Fair isn't optional. It's where the market shows up.
Why Canton Fair Matters
This isn't an exhibition. It's the supply chain in one place.
What Actually Happens at Canton Fair
Factories don't just display products here. They test ideas, launch new models, and meet serious buyers.
You talk pricing, customization, MOQs, packaging, and timelines face to face. No intermediaries. No email delays.
That's also why first-time visitors feel lost.
What You Can Do There
Everything You Need to Know
Click to expand each section and dive deeper into the details.
Electronics, Vehicles, Machinery, Hardware
Electronics & household electrical appliances, lighting equipment, vehicles & spare parts, machinery, hardware & tools, building materials, chemical products, and energy resources.
Consumer Goods, Decorations, Gifts
Consumer goods, home decorations, gifts & premiums, home textiles, kitchenware, ceramics, glassware, toys, sporting goods, garden products, and pet supplies.
Textiles, Garments, Health Products
Textiles & garments, shoes, bags, cases, fashion accessories, office supplies, health & recreation products, food & beverages, and medical devices.
1China Visa
- • Apply for a China business visa (M visa)
- • Processing takes 4-7 working days
- • Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- • Invitation letter from Canton Fair or agent
2Flights
- • Direct flights: Delhi/Mumbai to Guangzhou
- • Book 4-6 weeks in advance for best rates
- • Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
- • Flight duration: ~5-6 hours
3Accommodation
- • Stay near Pazhou Complex (fair venue)
- • Hotels fill up quickly—book early
- • Metro Line 8 connects to the venue
- • Budget: ₹5,000-15,000/night
4Registration
- • Pre-register online at cantonfair.org.cn
- • Bring business cards (100+ recommended)
- • Wear comfortable shoes—lots of walking
- • Carry a power bank and notepad
Attending the Wrong Phase
Each phase covers completely different product categories. Showing up to Phase 1 when you need textiles means wasting your entire trip.
Speaking to Traders, Not Factories
Many booths are run by trading companies, not manufacturers. Without knowing how to identify direct factories, you'll overpay.
Overpaying for Travel and Stay
Without group bookings or local knowledge, first-timers often pay 40-60% more for flights and hotels during fair season.
Collecting Samples with No Clear Next Steps
Many visitors return home with bags of samples but no follow-up plan, no verified contacts, and no way to compare suppliers.
You don't pay for noise. You pay for direction.
Group Travel Efficiencies
Travel with other Indian importers for better rates on flights, hotels, and local transport.
Negotiated Hotel Rates
We have tie-ups with hotels near the venue, saving you 30-40% compared to booking directly.
No Unnecessary Add-ons
We don't bundle services you don't need. Choose what matters for your trip.
No Supplier Commissions
We don't take cuts from suppliers. Our interests are aligned purely with yours.
When does Canton Fair happen?
Canton Fair is held twice a year—Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November). Each edition has three phases lasting about 5 days each.
How much does it cost to attend?
Entry to Canton Fair is free for registered buyers. Your main costs are visa (~₹8,000), flights (₹25,000-45,000), and accommodation (₹5,000-15,000/night). With ImportNow, you can reduce these significantly.
Is it worth visiting as a first-timer?
Absolutely—but only with proper preparation. First-timers who go without guidance often feel overwhelmed. With the right phase selection and a plan, it can be transformational for your sourcing.
Can I place orders at the fair?
Most exhibitors don't sell products directly at the fair. You'll collect samples, negotiate terms, and finalize orders after returning. The fair is for sourcing and relationship building.
How many days should I plan for?
For one phase, plan at least 4-5 days (2-3 days at the fair + buffer for factory visits if needed). Many serious buyers combine the fair with factory visits in nearby cities.
Where Brands Get Their Start
This is common at Canton Fair. If you know where to look.
Found a long-term manufacturing partner
A home appliances brand found its long-term manufacturing partner during its first Canton Fair visit. Today, they export to multiple markets.
Finalized exclusive molds in one meeting
A D2C kitchenware startup finalized exclusive molds after a single supplier meeting. Their bestseller came from that booth.
Cut sourcing costs with direct negotiation
An Indian importer cut sourcing costs by negotiating directly with factories instead of agents.
Why Most Indian Visitors Don't Get Results
Canton Fair doesn't fail people. Poor planning does.
- ✗They attend the wrong phase
- ✗They speak to traders, not factories
- ✗They overpay for travel and stay
- ✗They collect samples but no clear next steps
How ImportNow Helps
We help you attend Canton Fair with clarity.
Our focus is simple.
You come back with suppliers, not confusion.
Phase Selection Based on Your Business
We analyze your product requirements and recommend the right phase to attend.
End-to-End Travel and Visa Coordination
From visa application to hotel booking, we handle all logistics.
Pre-Fair Preparation and Supplier Direction
Know exactly which halls and booths to visit before you land.
On-Ground Support During the Fair
Our team is there with you for translation, navigation, and negotiation support.
Factory Visits and Next Steps After
We help you verify suppliers and plan post-fair factory visits.
Canton Fair Readiness ChecklistFor Indian Importers
Don't book anything until you've read this. Get clarity on exactly what you need before stepping into Canton Fair.
- Which phase you should attend based on product
- Minimum prep timeline (visa, flights, registration)
- Questions to ask suppliers on Day 1
- Common red flags Indian buyers miss
- Post-fair next steps most people forget
Get the Checklist
Before you book anything
Get Free ChecklistWe'll send it via WhatsApp or email—your choice.
In Short
Planning to Attend Canton Fair?
Tell us what you're looking to source.
We'll tell you if Canton Fair is the right move for you.