The 139th Canton Fair opens in Guangzhou this spring. Here is a practical checklist for buyers attending for the first time.
The Canton Fair remains the single most efficient way to meet a large number of Chinese manufacturers in one place. Phase 1 covers electronics, machinery and building materials; Phase 2 covers consumer goods, gifts and home decoration; Phase 3 covers textiles, footwear, office supplies and medical products.
Before you travel, decide which phase matters to you and book accommodation early — hotel prices in Guangzhou roughly double during the fair. Bring at least 300 business cards, a printed specification sheet for every product you intend to source, and a clear idea of your target price and order quantity. Suppliers take a buyer with a written specification far more seriously than one browsing with a phone camera.
Our team attends every session and can accompany you as an interpreter, help you shortlist stands in advance, and arrange follow-up factory visits in the same week so your trip produces orders rather than just business cards.