Canton Fair How-to-Guide
How to Attend The Canton Fair 2025
The Canton Fair, held twice a year in Guangzhou, China, provides a key venue for global business networking. This guide covers essential information on session dates, registration, transportation and practical tips for a successful visit.
1. Canton Fair Dates
Spring Session:
Phase 1: April 15–19 | Phase 2: April 23–27 | Phase 3: May 1–5
Autumn Session:
Phase 1: October 15–19 | Phase 2: October 23–27 | Phase 3: October 31–November 4
2. Fair Location and Layout
The Canton Fair Complex, located at 380 Yuejiang Zhong Lu Road, Hai Zhu, Guangzhou. The space is 1,100,000 square meters, with 338,000 square meters indoors and 43,600 square meters outdoors. The luggage category exhibits during Phase 3.
3. Preparation Before the Fair
Visa Requirements
Apply through the Visa for China website for detailed instructions. Required documents include:
Registration for the Canton Fair Options:
Pre-register to save 200 RMB (about 30 USD) on the on-site registration fee. First-time attendees should pre-register to receive an invitation letter, which is beneficial for obtaining a business visa.
Important dates:
Pre-registration runs from August 12 to November 4, 2025 (throughout the entire Fair period). To make the most of your visit, we recommend completing pre-registration before arriving in Guangzhou.
Registration Steps for Overseas Buyers:
- Visit the official Canton Fair website, choose the "Buyer" tab, and create an account.
- Submit your passport and business card to request an invitation letter.
- Complete registration after approval.
More options to pre-register:
For Returning Buyers (who have attended the Fair before)
You have three options:
Option 1: Pre-register via the Canton Fair App
Download the Canton Fair App.
Open the app, tap “My”, then “Login/Register” in the top left corner.
Click “Buyer Badge”.
Select the phases you plan to attend.
Your pre-registration is complete.
Option 2: Pre-register via the Buyer Service System (Official Website)
Go to the Canton Fair official website and log in to the Buyer Service System with your account.
On the homepage, select the phase(s) you plan to attend.
Submit your choice to complete pre-registration.
For New Buyers (first time attending the Fair onsite)
You also have two options:
Option 1: Pre-register via the Canton Fair App
Download the Canton Fair App.
Open the app, tap “My”, then “Login/Register”.
Click “Buyer Badge”.
Select the phases you plan to attend to complete your registration.
Option 2: Pre-register via the Buyer Service System (Official Website)
Go to the Canton Fair official website and log in to the Buyer Service System with your account.
On the homepage, select the phase(s) you plan to attend.
Submit your choice to complete pre-registration.
For Chinese mainland citizens, register here.
Pre-registration Benefits
First-hand updates: Pre-registered buyers receive highlight news, exhibitor/product info, and event notices by email.
Exclusive gift: Overseas buyers who pre-register can collect a commemorative gift (e.g., Canton Fair pin, felt bag) at the Complex.
Onsite Badge Collection:
Your Buyer Badge (IC Card) is valid for multiple sessions. Pre-registered attendees can use express channels at registration offices at the main complex and 40 designated hotels.
Additional offices are at key points in Areas B, C, and D of the Canton Fair Complex.
Two overseas buyer registration offices are at Area B of the Canton Fair Complex (Exit A/B, Pazhou Station, Guangzhou Metro Line 8).
One overseas buyer registration office is at Area C of the Canton Fair Complex (Exit C, Pazhou Station, Guangzhou Metro Line 8).
One overseas buyer registration office is at Area D of the Canton Fair Complex (Exit A, Xingangdong Station, Guangzhou Metro Line 8).
Customer Service Telphone: (852) 2877 1318 | Email: cs@cantonfair.org.cn
4. Transportation to the Canton Fair
Air Travel: Fly into Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, with international flights from major airlines, including American Airlines, Air China, China Southern, and Delta.
Metro: Take Line 3 from the airport to Tiyu Xi Station, then transfer to Line 8 to reach Xingang Dong or Pazhou Station. The journey takes about 43 minutes.
Taxi: Fare is 2.6 RMB/km, with a 50% surcharge over 35 km. Ask for "Pa Zhou" or "Canton Fair."
Shuttle Bus: The Guangzhou Airport Express shuttle runs directly from the airport to the fair complex every 30 minutes between 13:00 and 18:00.
5. Tips for Attending the Canton Fair
Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks: While food options are available, bringing water and snacks is helpful, especially for extended meetings.
Dining Options: Restaurants in Areas A, B, and C offer Cantonese and Western cuisine. To avoid long waits, plan to eat outside peak lunch hours.
Scheduling Meetings: Use the Canton Fair website to prioritize booths and schedule meetings in advance. The complex is extensive, so planning saves time.
Connectivity Essentials: WiFi is available onsite, but a VPN is needed to access Google and other restricted sites. WeChat is essential for communication.
Business Cards: Bring both physical and digital business cards, as some suppliers prefer physical cards.
Attire and Essentials: Wear comfortable shoes and smart casual clothing. A light sweater may be needed indoors. A carry-on bag is ideal for storing brochures and supplies, including a power bank, chargers, and a notebook.
Exploring Guangzhou: Take time to explore Guangzhou’s top attractions. For inspiration, visit our Guangzhou attractions guide.
Access our Canton Fair checklist here for final preparations.