If you buy or sell goods, the Canton Fair is one place you don’t want to miss. This global trade showcase happens biannually in Guangzhou, China.
In this guide, we’ll help you learn all you need to know to attend the Canton Fair 2026. From how to plan your trip, to how to meet Fair exhibitors, and even how to deal with Canton Fair logistics.
What is the Canton Fair?
The Canton Fair, also called the China Import and Export Fair, the China Trade Fair, or the Guangzhou Trade Fair, has been around since 1957. It is held in three phases, each with different types of products. The 138th Canton Fair last year welcomed buyers from 223 countries and regions, with more than 310,000 showing up in person to set a new attendance record.
You can find just about anything here:
- Home goods
- Clothes and shoes
- Tools and parts
- Tech items
- Toys
- Food
- Furniture
It’s the top event for buyers who want many products in one place.
The Three Phases of the Canton Fair
The Canton Fair schedule is split into three phases. Each phase shows different kinds of goods. You can plan to stay for the full fair dates to explore all zones, but most buyers only go to the phase that fits their work.
Here’s a quick guide to each phase of the current Canton Trade Fair:
Phase 1: Machinery, Electronics, and Industrial Equipment
Dates: April 15–19, 2026
Canton Fair Phase 1 is where you’ll find all things tech and tools. It covers products like machines, electronics, and heavy industrial gear. Businesses that deal with high-end tech, hardware, or large equipment should come during this phase. It’s the best time to meet top China exhibitors and suppliers in fields like energy, construction, and smart devices.
Phase 2: Consumer Goods, Gifts, and Home Décor
Dates: April 23–27, 2026
Canton Fair Phase 2 focuses on items that people use every day. You’ll see a wide range of home goods, décor, gifts, and crafts. This phase is great for shop owners, Amazon sellers, and retailers who want to find new trends or popular items for the season. You’ll meet many creative suppliers who specialize in stylish and useful home products here.
Phase 3: Textiles, Health Products, Food, Personal Care, and Lifestyle Goods
Dates: May 1–5, 2026
Canton Fair Phase 3 covers textiles and apparel, health products, food, personal care items, travel and lifestyle goods, and other consumer-focused categories. If your business focuses on apparel, wellness, beauty, or everyday retail products, this is the phase to attend.
Visit the Official China Import and Export Fair Site.
Why Attend the Canton Fair 2026?
The China Trade Fair is a top event for anyone who wants to buy from China. It’s the place to find new suppliers, make new deals, and grow your import business. You can meet with real makers, skip the middleman, and get better prices.
The fair shows a huge range of goods, from raw materials to finished items, great for all kinds of buyers.
It’s also a chance to grow your network and learn what’s new in the market and your field.
How to Attend the Canton Fair 2026?
The process differs depending on whether you’ve been before.
For First-Time Visitors
To attend the Canton Fair 2026 for the first time, you should first register in the Buyer Service System and apply for your buyer badge. If you need a visa to enter China, you can then apply for an invitation letter through the official system. You must also sign up on the China Import and Export Fair website to get a buyer badge. This badge is your entry pass to the fair. You can also use the Canton Fair App to search exhibitors, plan your route, and improve sourcing efficiency.
Register online in advance. It can save you time when collecting your buyer badge on site. You will need to complete your registration details and prepare your passport and company business card for badge collection and verification.
For Returning Buyers
Just log in to your old account and check that all your info is right. If it is, you can use your old badge to get in. If your original buyer badge is lost or you forget to bring it, you can apply for a replacement on site, which costs 200 RMB / HK$250 per card.
Badge Pickup Locations and Hours
You can pick up your badge at the fair site, at one of the designated hotels in Guangzhou, or at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, Guangzhou South Railway Station, or the Pazhou Ferry Terminal. It’s best to go to a hotel site to avoid the long lines.
The on-site Registration Office (Overseas Buyer) keeps these hours:
|
Phase |
Date |
Service Hours |
|
Phase 1 |
April 12–13 |
09:00–18:00 |
|
Phase 1 |
April 14–19 |
08:30–18:00 |
|
Phase 2 |
April 22 |
09:00–18:00 |
|
Phase 2 |
April 23–27 |
08:30–18:00 |
|
Phase 3 |
April 30 |
09:00–18:00 |
|
Phase 3 |
May 1–5 |
08:30–18:00 |
How to get to the Canton Fair?
The Canton Fair Complex is located in Pazhou, Guangzhou, Guangdong province.
Getting to Guangzhou
Flying from abroad? The Air+Sea link lets you fly into Hong Kong and take a ferry from Hong Kong Airport’s SkyPier straight to Pazhou Ferry Terminal. Book your trip with “Guangzhou, Pazhou Ferry Terminal (PFT)” as your end stop and your bags will be sent there for you. Once you reach the terminal, go down the escalators, turn right, and walk 200 meters. You’ll see the fair complex across the street — cross at the zebra crossing and head to the main gate.
If you land at Baiyun Airport, shuttle and transfer services to the fairgrounds are usually available during the fair period. You can also check with your hotel for direct shuttle arrangements.
Getting Around in Guangzhou
For Hall B or C, take Line 8 or Line 11 to Pazhou Station. For Hall A or D, stay on Line 8 one more stop to Xingang East Station and use Exit A. The four halls are connected inside. Coming from Dongguan, Foshan, or other Greater Bay Area cities? Intercity rail connects directly to Pazhou Station and transfers to Line 11 without a second security check.
How to Maximize Your Visit to the Canton Fair?
To make the most of your first visit to the Canton Fair, early arrival is key. Aim to arrive at the venue by 9:00 AM, just before the 9:30 opening. Lines build up fast on peak days, and getting in early gives you a head start before the halls get crowded. Arriving early makes it easier to move through the large, busy venue.
Planning ahead is also crucial for a successful experience. Prepare a list of the suppliers you want to meet and use the Canton Fair app to map out your route. Stay organized, and you will save a lot of time.
Shipping Your Samples and Orders from Canton Fair
You will probably collect goods from several suppliers at the fair. Try to avoid letting each factory arrange its own shipping. Separate shipments from multiple factories often cost more and make tracking more difficult.
Foresmart offers a simpler option. We can also assist with product sourcing and supplier coordination when needed. Your suppliers can send your items to our local warehouses in Guangzhou, Foshan, or Shenzhen, where we consolidate them into a single shipment. We handle LCL shipping, customs clearance, and final delivery to your destination.
One consolidated shipment saves time, simplifies communication, and helps reduce overall shipping costs.
10 Tips for First-Time Buyers
If this is your first time, don’t worry. Here are some easy tips to help:
- Use a Translation App: Not all suppliers speak fluent English, so a translation app can help you communicate smoothly.
- Bring Plenty of Business Cards: You’ll meet many suppliers, so business cards make it easy to stay in touch.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The fair is massive, and you’ll be walking a lot.
- Be Ready to Negotiate: Remember that prices aren’t fixed. Chinese suppliers expect bargaining.
- Plan Ahead: The fair is huge and can be overwhelming, so know what you want to see in advance.
- Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: It’s a long day, so drink water and rest when needed.
- Use a Bag or Backpack: You’ll collect brochures, samples, and catalogs. Use a bag so you can carry them with ease.
- Don’t Rush: Take your time to study each product and ask the right questions.
- Use Maps: The fair is massive, but navigation tools help you find booths quickly.
- Use Cards to Pay: Guangzhou Metro accepts contactless Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, and UnionPay cards at designated gates. No need to buy a ticket or carry cash for your commute.
Final Thoughts
The Canton Fair 2026 connects you directly with China’s top manufacturers. Once you secure your deals, the next step is moving your goods efficiently. Foresmart is your trusted partner on the ground, with operations in Guangzhou, Foshan, and Shenzhen. We handle LCL consolidation, FBA shipping, sea and air freight, customs clearance, cargo insurance, and last-mile delivery, so you can stay focused on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the Canton Fair dates in 2026?
The Canton Fair 2026 has two sessions:
Spring Session (139th Canton Fair):
- Phase 1: April 15–19, 2026
- Phase 2: April 23–27, 2026
- Phase 3: May 1–5, 2026
Autumn Session (140th Canton Fair):
- Phase 1: October 15–19, 2026
- Phase 2: October 23–27, 2026
- Phase 3: October 31–November 4, 2026
(Exact dates subject to official confirmation.)
Where is the Canton Fair 2026 held?
The Canton Fair 2026 takes place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex, also known as the Pazhou Exhibition Center. The specific Canton Fair address is No. 382 Yuejiang Zhong Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
How Much Does Attending the Canton Fair Cost?
Buyer entry is free with pre-registration, but expect to spend around $2000 to $3000 USD for a 5-day trip. (Costs vary; confirm current rates before traveling.) This includes costs for flights, visa, accommodation, local transport, food, and optional services like hiring translators.
Where to Stay at the China Import and Export Fair?
The Trade Fair is held at the Pazhou Exhibition Center and there are lots of hotels close by, with options for every budget, from affordable to luxury.
The Canton Fair 2026 has two sessions:
Spring Session (139th Canton Fair):
- Phase 1: April 15–19, 2026
- Phase 2: April 23–27, 2026
- Phase 3: May 1–5, 2026
Autumn Session (140th Canton Fair):
- Phase 1: October 15–19, 2026
- Phase 2: October 23–27, 2026
- Phase 3: October 31–November 4, 2026
(Exact dates subject to official confirmation.)
The Canton Fair 2026 takes place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex, also known as the Pazhou Exhibition Center. The specific Canton Fair address is No. 382 Yuejiang Zhong Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
Buyer entry is free with pre-registration, but expect to spend around $2000 to $3000 USD for a 5-day trip. (Costs vary; confirm current rates before traveling.) This includes costs for flights, visa, accommodation, local transport, food, and optional services like hiring translators.
The Trade Fair is held at the Pazhou Exhibition Center and there are lots of hotels close by, with options for every budget, from affordable to luxury.
