The Ultimate Canton Fair Guide for International Buyers

Heading to the Canton Fair in Guangzhou? It’s one of the best places in the world to find new suppliers and products. But it’s also huge and can be overwhelming without the right plan.

I’ve combined advice from experienced importers to create this ultimate “no-fluff” guide. It will walk you through what to do before, during, and after the fair to make your trip a success.

Part 1: Before You Go – Your Success Depends on This

Start preparing at least one month in advance.

1.1 Get Your Badge (The Most Important Step!)

• You MUST apply online before the fair. You cannot buy a buyer’s badge at the door. The only official website is the Canton Fair’s official website. Avoid third-party agents to prevent scams.
• Pro-Tip: Once you get the e-badge, print a paper copy. Scanning a printed badge at the entrance is often faster than using your phone.

1.2 Book Your Travel & Hotel Early

• Hotel: Hotels near the Pazhou Complex get very expensive and fully booked.
  • Smart Money-Saver: Book a hotel along Guangzhou Metro Line 8 (stations like Changgang, Kecun, Chigang, Wanshengwei). The subway is efficient, cheap, and takes you directly to the fair in 15-20 minutes.
• Flight: Book your flight as early as possible for the best price.

1.3 Do Your Homework (Be a Pro)

• Check the Exhibition Layout: The fair website has a map. Check which phase your products are in (Phase 1: Electronics, Machinery; Phase 2: Home & Gift; Phase 3: Textiles).
• Create a “Treasure Map”: Search the online exhibitor directory for your target suppliers. Write down their booth numbers. Save the PDF map on your phone and mark these must-visit booths.
• Prepare Your Gear:
  • Business Cards: Bring a lot—at least 200-300.
  • Product Info: Bring pictures or specifications of the products you want to source.
  • Questions List: Prepare key questions: “What’s your MOQ?”, “What’s your best FOB price?”, “What certifications do you have?”

1.4 Pack Your “Survival Kit”

• Comfortable Shoes: You will walk 10,000+ steps a day. This is the #1 tip!
• Backpack: For catalogs, samples, water, and snacks.
• Portable Charger (Power Bank): Your phone is your map and camera. Keep it charged.
• Local SIM Card / Portable Wi-Fi: Essential for navigation and translation apps.
• Reusable Water Bottle & Snacks: There are free water dispensers inside. Snacks will save you time and money.

Part 2: During the Fair – Your Game Plan

2.1. Navigation: Don’t Get Lost

• Use Your Digital Map: The pre-marked map on your phone is your best friend.
• Grab a Paper Map: Get a free paper map at the information desk to scribble on.
• Look Up! The best signs are huge banners hanging from the ceiling showing product categories and hall numbers.
• Plan Your Route: Visit suppliers by zone (e.g., all in Hall A first) to avoid walking back and forth. Use the free shuttle buses between the different exhibition areas.

2.2. Communication & Negotiation: Get the Best Deal

• Introduce Yourself Clearly: Start with, “We are importers from [Your Country] looking for long-term suppliers.” This gets you taken seriously.
• Ask Smart Questions: Go beyond “How much?”. Ask about MOQ, main export markets, and product certifications.
• The Key Question: Ask, “Are you the factory or a trading company?” If they are the factory, ask to see photos or a video.
• Use a Calculator: Typing numbers is clearer than speaking them, especially with a language barrier.
• The Golden Rule: Do not feel pressured to order on the spot! The fair is for gathering information. Politely take their details and follow up later.

2.3. Information Management: Stay Organized

• Write on Business Cards: As soon as you get a card, write on the back: 1) Product of interest, 2) Key price/MOQ, 3) Your impression (e.g., “Good quality”). This is a game-changer!
• Take Photos: Take pictures of products, and make sure to include the supplier’s business card or booth number in the shot.
• Review Daily: Spend 15 minutes each evening organizing your notes and cards.

2.4. Food & Rest: Keep Your Energy Up

• Avoid the Lunch Rush: The food courts inside are packed from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM. Eat early (11:30 AM) or late (1:30 PM).
• Fast & Easy Option: Convenience stores (like 7-Eleven) inside the halls are perfect for a quick lunch like sandwiches or rice balls.
• For a Better Meal: Take the subway one stop to the “NANFENG MALL” or two stops to the “POLY WORLD MALL”. More choices, better prices, and a quieter environment.
• Rest Smart: The best quiet spots to rest are often on the second-floor corridors between halls.

2.5. Samples & Safety

• Samples: For small items, take them. For large/heavy samples, ask if they can ship them to you later (confirm who pays for shipping). You can also use DHL/FedEx offices inside the fair to ship samples home.
• Stay Safe: Be cautious if someone invites you to see samples outside the fair. Keep your wallet and phone secure in a bag with a zipper.

Part 3: After the Fair – The Real Work Begins

3.1 Timely Supplier Communication

• The “Golden Week”: Follow up via email within one week of returning home. Reference your meeting at the fair.

3.2 Verifying Your Top Choices

• Vet Key Suppliers: For potential partners, request a factory video tour or consider a third-party inspection before large orders.

Good luck at the Canton Fair! With this plan, you’ll be efficient, prepared, and ready to find great new partners for your business.