The Canton Fair stands as the world's largest and most prestigious trade exhibition, attracting hundreds of thousands of international buyers and exhibitors annually. Whether you're a seasoned importer or planning your first visit, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Canton Fair 2026.

What Is the Canton Fair?

The China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, has been held twice a year in Guangzhou every spring and autumn since 1957, boasting a remarkable nearly 70 year old history. Established in 1957, the fair has grown into the largest comprehensive trade exhibition in China, attracting more than 200,000 international buyers and hosting over 60,000 booths each session.

Located in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, the fair attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year from around the world. The event serves as a crucial platform for international trade, economic cooperation, and business development between China and the global market.

Canton Fair 2026 Dates and Schedule

Spring Session 2026 (139th Edition)

The spring session is scheduled for:

• Phase 1: 15th - 19th April 2026

• Phase 2: 23rd - 27th April 2026

• Phase 3: 1st - 5th May 2026

Autumn Session 2026 (140th Edition)

The autumn session dates are:

• Phase 1: 15th - 19th October 2026

• Phase 2: 23rd - 27th October 2026

• Phase 3: 31st October - 4th November 2026

Each phase runs for five days, including weekends, with exhibitions operating from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

Understanding the Three Phases: Products and Categories

The Canton Fair is grouped thematically, with each edition consisting of three phases: the first dedicated to electronics and lighting, the second focused on consumer goods, and the third on textiles and medical products.

Phase 1: Electronics, Machinery, and Industrial Equipment

Phase 1 specialises in machinery, electronics, and industrial equipment, making it perfect for businesses looking for cutting-edge technology and heavy-duty products. This phase is ideal for buyers operating in manufacturing, infrastructure, construction, and energy sectors.

Key product categories include:

• Electronics and home appliances

• Audio and video equipment

• Machinery and industrial automation

• Lighting products

• Energy resources

• Hardware and tools

• Vehicles, motorcycles, and bicycles

• Construction and agricultural machinery

• Chemical products

Phase 2: Consumer Goods, Gifts, and Home Décor

Phase 2 focuses on consumer goods, gifts, and home décor, making it the ideal choice for retailers seeking popular items. This phase draws significant attention from wholesalers, retailers, and e-commerce businesses.

Featured products encompass:

• Home furnishings and furniture

• Building and decoration materials

• Festival products and gifts

• Kitchenware and tableware

• Gardening products

• Sanitary and bathroom equipment

• Ceramics and art pieces

• Weaving, rattan, and iron products

Phase 3: Textiles, Apparel, and Healthcare Products

Phase 3 is dedicated to clothing, textiles, and healthcare products, making it ideal for fashion brands and healthcare companies sourcing apparel and wellness items.

This phase showcases:

• Men's, women's, and children's clothing

• Sportswear and casual wear

• Footwear and accessories

• Furs, leather, and down products

• Carpets and tapestries

• Personal care products

• Medicines and health products

• Medical devices

• Office supplies

• Pet products and food

Location and Venue Information

The event takes place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou, a sprawling venue that covers 1.5 million square metres. The complex, also known as the Pazhou Complex, is located on Pazhou Island in the Haizhu District.

Getting to the Venue

Transportation options include:

Metro to Canton Fair Complex (Line 8)

• Xingangdong Station (Entrance A) → Area A of the Canton Fair Complex

• Pazhou Station (Entrances A & B) → Area B of the Canton Fair Complex

From Airport (Terminals 1/2)

Terminal 2 (Airport North Station) / Terminal 1 (Airport South Station): Line 3 (North Extension) → West Sports Road Station (transfer to Line 3) → Kecun Station (transfer to Line 8) → Xingangdong Station (Area A) or Pazhou Station (Areas B & C)

From Railway Stations

• Guangzhou Railway Station: Line 2 (direction towards: Guangzhou South Railway Station) → Changgang Station → Line 8 (direction: Wanshengwei) → Xingangdong Station (Area A) or Pazhou Station (Areas B & C)

• Guangzhou East Railway Station: Line 3 (direction towards Panyu Square) → Kecun Station → Line 8 (direction: Wanshengwei) → Xingangdong Station (Area A) or Pazhou Station (Areas B & C)

• Guangzhou South Railway Station: Line 2 (direction towards Jiahewanggang) → Changgang Station → Line 8 (direction: Wanshengwei) → Xingangdong Station (Area A) or Pazhou Station (Areas B & C)

Taxi

Taxis are only permitted to pick up and drop off passengers at designated locations: the central taxi lane in Area A and the east side pickup point at the Area C exhibition hall. Passenger pickup and drop-off are prohibited on all other roads within the complex.

Hotel Shuttle

Many partner hotels provide complimentary shuttle services to the venue.

How to Register for Canton Fair 2026

Online Registration Process

• Create your account: Visit the Canton Fair's official Buyer Service System and register using your email address. You'll receive a verification email—click the activation link to set up your account credentials.

• Complete your profile: Log in to the system and fill out all required personal and company information to verify your buyer status.

• Apply for your buyer badge: Navigate to the badge application section and submit your request. This badge grants you access to the fair.

• Request your invitation letter: Once your badge application is submitted, apply for an official invitation letter through the system. You can download and print this e-invitation for visa purposes if needed.

• Collect your credentials on-site: After your application is approved, print the QR code from the system. When you arrive at the Canton Fair, present your QR code, valid passport or travel document, and business card at the registration office to receive your physical buyer badge free of charge.

Visa Requirements for International Buyers

Types of Visas

For Canton Fair attendance, an M Visa is ideal for business visitors attending trade events or meetings, whilst an L Visa serves as the tourist visa, and an F Visa is used for short-term exchanges and non-commercial activities. 

Required Documents

To attend the Canton Fair, most foreigners need to apply for a Chinese business visa (M visa). Trade fairs, sourcing activities, and supplier meetings generally require a China Business (M) visa.

Eligibility and Requirements for China Business (M) Visa - Canton Fair Checklist:

• Qualifying purpose: Attending trade fairs, sourcing products, or meeting with suppliers (all covered under M visa category)

• Official invitation: Canton Fair Invitation required (electronic or paper format), including your name, nationality, and company details for visa processing. Applicants must be at least 18 years old to obtain an invitation.

• Valid travel documents: Passport with a minimum 6 months validity and 2 blank pages, plus recent colour passport photographs meeting Chinese visa photo requirements.

• Application materials: Completed online visa application form with confirmation page, plus any additional business documentation requested by the consulate. M visa applications typically require a trade fair invitation; some consulates may also request the inviting company's business license or ID copy.

Accommodation and Planning Tips

It's better to book your hotel at least one month ahead, as accommodations sell out fast during the fair. There are many options available near 

Booking Hotels

Hotels Near Canton Fair

Luxury Options:

• Westin Pazhou – Inside exhibition centre

• Langham Place – 2.5 km away

• Hilton Guangzhou Baiyun – 8 km away

• Guangzhou Wanda Vista – 8 km away

Mid-Range:

• DoubleTree by Hilton – 3 km away,

Budget Options:

• Jinjiang Inn, Hanting Hotel, Super 8, Home Inn Plus, Vienna Hotel – 1-2 km away

Language Support

Language support is widely available with on-site services including professional translators at the International Business Centre (English, Spanish, Italian, etc.), digital tools such as WeChat's real-time translation feature supporting 18 languages, and multilingual volunteers at registration desks and hotels providing guidance.

Maximising Your Canton Fair Experience

Pre-Fair Preparation

• Create Your Sourcing Strategy: Define your product needs and develop a plan covering target industries, exhibitors, budget, and negotiation tactics. Use the Canton Fair's exhibitor directory to pre-identify potential suppliers.

• Familiarise Yourself with the Venue: The fair is held at Pazhou Exhibition Center in Guangzhou. Check the official website to identify relevant phases and exhibitors.

• Complete Your Registration: Register online or by mail early, as spots fill quickly. Registration usually begins several months before the fair.

• Secure Your Travel Visa: Apply for a Chinese visa well in advance with the required documents, including your passport and Canton Fair invitation letter.

• Arrange Transportation and Lodging: Book flights to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and reserve accommodation early, as hotels fill up during the fair.

• Participate and Network: Attend the fair, meet suppliers, and source products. Take notes, collect contacts, negotiate terms, and verify product quality.

During the Fair

The Canton Fair is one of the rare opportunities where you're face-to-face with suppliers instead of negotiating via email, giving you leverage if you prepare for it in advance.

Best practices include:

• Arrive early to avoid crowds (avoid attending on the first or last day of each phase)

• Take detailed notes and photographs of products

• Record booth numbers for suppliers you wish to revisit

• Request business cards and catalogues

• Negotiate terms whilst maintaining professional relationships

• Discuss factory visits for potential long-term partnerships

• Wear comfortable footwear as you'll be walking extensively

Post-Fair Follow-Up

Contact suppliers within one week after the fair. They meet many buyers during the event, so reaching out quickly shows you're serious and keeps the conversation moving.

Who Should Attend the Canton Fair 2026?

• Any business or profession involved in buying and selling physical products.

• Those looking to source goods directly from a massive range of Chinese manufacturers and suppliers.

• Large-scale importers and major retail chains are aiming to expand their product lines and secure bulk orders.

• Small business owners, e-commerce sellers, and entrepreneurs are searching for new or trending products to sell.

• Anyone wanting to discover the latest product innovations and industry trends straight from the source.

• Professionals who want to meet suppliers face-to-face to build relationships and negotiate terms directly, rather than just through email.

Final Word

The Canton Fair 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to connect with suppliers, discover new products, and expand your business globally. With the right preparation—from visa processing to strategic planning—you can make the most of this world-class trade event.

Let Skytime handle the logistics with our Canton Fair 2026 April tour package. We take care of visa assistance, accommodation, and on-ground support so you can focus on sourcing and building valuable business relationships.

Ready to attend the Canton Fair 2026? Explore Skytime's tour packages today and start your sourcing journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the Canton Fair in 2026?

Canton Fair 2026 will take place in the China Import and Export Fair Complex (Pazhou Complex) in Guangzhou.

Is the Canton Fair free?

Yes, registration for the Canton Fair is free online. However, if you register on-site, a Buyer's Badge costs 100 RMB (about $15 USD). You can also get the badge free at Areas C or D with your business card.

Note: Badge registration fees may change. Check the official Canton Fair website closer to your visit date for the correct pricing.

Is the Canton Fair worth it?

Yes, the Canton Fair is worth attending if you're looking for new product ideas, direct supplier relationships, and market insights. It's particularly valuable for first-time importers, retailers, and e-commerce sellers sourcing consumer goods. 

What are the travel tips for the Canton Fair?

• Apply for your Chinese visa well in advance with the required documents

• Book accommodation at least one month ahead (hotels sell out fast)

• Create a sourcing strategy and pre-identify suppliers using the exhibitor directory

• Arrive early to avoid crowds; avoid the first or last day of each phase

• Wear comfortable shoes and take detailed notes

• Follow up with suppliers within one week after the fair

Which Phase of the Canton Fair Should I Attend?

Your choice depends on your business focus. Attend Phase 1 for electronics, machinery, and industrial equipment. Phase 2 for consumer goods, gifts, home décor, and furniture or Phase 3 for textiles, apparel, healthcare products, and office supplies. You can attend multiple phases if your business spans various categories.

Do I Need an Invitation Letter for the Canton Fair 2026?

Yes, an invitation letter from the Canton Fair organisers is essential for two purposes: applying for your Chinese business visa (M visa) and collecting the badge quickly at the venue. You can obtain this letter through the online registration process on the official Canton Fair website.

Can I Attend the Canton Fair 2026 Without a Business?

The Canton Fair is primarily designed for business professionals, including buyers, importers, exporters, and industry representatives. General public attendance is not permitted. You'll need to provide business credentials, including company registration documents, during the registration process.

How Do I Find Specific Suppliers at Canton Fair 2026?

Use the official Canton Fair website and mobile app to search the exhibitor directory before attending. You can filter by product category, company name, or booth number. The venue provides detailed maps, and you can pre-schedule appointments with key suppliers to ensure productive meetings during the fair.