The Canton Fair is the world's largest trade show. Twice a year, Guangzhou hosts 200,000+ international buyers across 60,000 booths. Without a plan, you'll waste days walking and leave empty-handed.

Before You Go

  • Register online β€” don't wait in the 2-hour registration line
  • Download the Canton Fair app β€” search exhibitors by product category and hall number
  • Book hotels early β€” all hotels in Pazhou book out 2-3 weeks before the fair
  • Bring comfortable shoes β€” you'll walk 15-20 km per day
  • Carry a portable battery β€” your phone GPS and camera will drain it fast

On the Floor

  • Start at the back of each hall β€” the front booths are premium (expensive), back booths are hungrier and more flexible on price
  • Collect catalogs but don't carry them all β€” take photos with your phone and collect business cards
  • Ask for factory location β€” if it's in the same province as their products, that's a good sign
  • Schedule factory visits for the week after the fair β€” many factories offer transportation from the fairgrounds

After the Fair

  • Follow up within 48 hours β€” suppliers meet 100+ buyers, they'll forget you fast
  • Request samples immediately β€” before they get busy with other orders
  • Don't commit to large orders at the fair β€” take samples home, test them, then negotiate