How to Attend the 139th Canton Fair 2026: A Complete Guide for Importers

Introduction

The Canton Fair, the world’s largest import & export trade fair, is a must-visit event for global importers and buyers.

The upcoming April 2026 session promises an exciting lineup of diverse exhibitors and innovative products. And EJET Procurement will be there with a booth, ready to connect with visitors for partnership opportunities.

However, Stepping into the Pazhou Complex, the Canton Fair’s main venue spanning 1.55 million square meters, can feel overwhelming.

But no worries! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to attend the Canton Fair 2026 with confidence and make the most of your visit. Let’s get started!

What is The Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair (officially called the China Import and Export Fair) is the largest trade show in China.

This 139th event is an opportunity to interact directly with manufacturers and suppliers, making it a key gateway for global businesses to source products from China.

Widely regarded as a barometer of China’s foreign trade, the fair attracts thousands of exhibitors and buyers from around the world. Whether you are a retailer, wholesaler, or brand owner, the Canton Fair is the ideal platfrom for importing from China in bulk.

Beyond product sourcing, the event provides insights into global trade trends and a comprehensive experience of China’s export landscape.

Canton Fair 2026 Dates & Phases

The Canton Fair is held twice annually in spring and autumn. The 139th Canton Fair is scheduled to open on April 15th, 2026, spanning three weeks.

Spring Session: April 15 – May 5, 2025
Autumn Session: October 15 – November 4, 2025

This trade show operates in three phases, each focusing on specific product categories. It's essential to know these stages for efficient planning. You can choose to visit phases that align with your business needs.

Phase 1: April 15-19, 2026

Consumer Electronics and Information Products, Household electrical appliances, Spare parts, Lighting Equipment, Electronic and electrical products, Hardware, Tools.

Phase 2: April 23-27, 2026

General ceramics, Household items, Kitchenware & tableware, Weaving, Gardening products, Home decorations, Festival products.

Phase 3: May 1-5, 2026

Home textiles, Carpets & tapestries, Clothes, Underwear, Sports and casual wear, Cases and bags, Pet Products & Food, Toiletries, Toys.

Canton Fair Opening Hours

During the Fair period, the exhibition hall is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Beijing Time), giving attendees ample time to explore exhibits across all three phases.

Canton Fair Location

The Canton Fair 2026 is held at the China Import and Export Fair Complex, located at No. 380 Yuejiang Middle Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, China (中国广州市海珠区阅江中路380号，中国进出口商品交易会展馆).

(Source: Google Map of the Canton Fair location)

Why The Canton Fair 2026 Still Matters for Global Importers?

You might be wondering if traveling to the Canton Fair 2026 is worth it. The answer is yes — this event is much more than a showcase of products. It’s a gateway to new opportunities for your business.

Attending the fair provides direct access to Chinese manufacturers and global suppliers, enabling face-to-face communication, negotiation, and networking. As the largest trade fair in China, the Canton Fair presents millions of products across all industries, from consumer goods to industrial machinery, all in one location.

Exhibitors showcase their latest product launches, technologies, and designs, giving buyers early insight into global market trends. The fair attracts leading manufacturers and reliable suppliers, ensuring high-quality opportunities for sourcing from China.

Key Benefits for Importers:

Face-to-Face Communication
Unmatched Scale and Product Variety
Access to the Latest Trends and Innovation
Top-Tier Suppliers Worldwide

Overall, the Canton Fair enriches your trade knowledge, improves sourcing strategies, and helps build enduring business relationships. For importers looking to expand, it remains a must-attend event and a valuable investment for future growth.

How to Register and Get the Buyer Badge for the Canton Fair?

Your buyer badge is your key to accessing the Canton Fair. All attendees must complete an online application to receive their buyer badge.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular, you need to follow the right steps to make sure your registration goes smoothly. Let’s break down what you need to do.

If You're the First Time to Attend

If this is your first time at the Chi fair, you might feel a bit overwhelmed. Don’t worry! The process is simple if you follow each step.

Online Pre-Registration

Start by visiting the official Canton Fair website. Create your account and fill in your personal and company details. You will need to upload a passport-style photo. After you finish, you will get an e-invitation. This invitation is very important. You need it for your visa and for badge collection.

Get Your Invitation

The invitation is your golden ticket. You must have it to apply for your visa and to register for the fair. Make sure your name on the invitation matches your passport.

Apply for Your Visa

Most buyers need a business or trade visa to enter Canton. Use your invitation to apply at your local Chinese embassy or consulate. The process usually takes 5-10 business days. You will need your passport, invitation, and hotel or flight details.

Arrive in Guangzhou

Once you land, you can take the metro, taxi, or a free shuttle bus from your hotel to the fair venue. Metro Line 8 stops right at the fair complex, making it easy to get there.

Collect Your Buyer Badge

Head to the Buyer Registration Center at the Pazhou Complex. The staff will check your documents and give you your buyer badge. You can pick up your badge 1–2 days before the fair starts or on the opening day.

Bring these documents:

Your original passport
Your invitation (printed or on your phone)
The QR code or confirmation from your online registration

Tip: Register online early. This saves you time and helps you avoid long lines at the venue.

If You're a Regular Buyer

If you have attended the Canton Fair before, the process is even easier for you. Simply log in to the system, confirm your details, and renew your buyer badge.

Express Registration

You can use the express lane at the registration center. Bring your old buyer badge, your current passport, and your new invitation. The staff will verify your details and issue your new badge quickly.

Update Your Details

If your company or personal information has changed, update it online before you arrive. This helps you avoid any problems at the counter.

Badge Validity

Your buyer badge is valid for multiple sessions. If you keep your badge safe, you can use it for future fairs. Just remember to update your registration and get a new invitation each time.

Note: Always bring your invitation and passport, even if you are a regular. The staff will check these before giving you your badge.

How to Get a China VISA for the Canton Fair?

Obtaining a Chinese visa is essential for attending the Canton Fair. Start the process early to avoid last-minute issues and ensure you have all the legal permissions needed for your trip.

Visa & Invitation Letter

A visa requires an invitation letter from the Canton Fair. This document is a vital component of your visa application.

Ensure that your invitation letter is valid and corresponds to your travel dates. Double-check all necessary documents for accuracy before submission.

Get an invitation letter from EJET

Application Steps

Applying for a visa involves several steps. Visit the Chinese Embassy or Consulate responsible for your region.

Start gathering required documents well ahead of your trip. Essential steps include:

Completing the visa application form.
Submitting a recent passport-sized photo.
Providing proof of travel and accommodation.
Securing these documents in advance will ease the application process.

Processing Tips

Smooth processing ensures you receive your visa on time. Here are some tips to avoid delays:

Submit well before your planned travel.
Double-check all submitted documents for completeness.
Clearly follow the instructions from the consulate.
Prompt action and thorough preparation minimize potential application hitches.

How to Get to the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair is held at the China Import and Export Fair Complex (also called the Guangzhou International Convention & Exhibition Center). There are several convenient ways to reach the venue, whether you’re arriving from abroad or traveling locally within Guangzhou.

Flights to China

Book your flights to Guangzhou early to secure the best rates. Direct flights from major cities are plentiful, ensuring connectivity.

Remember to check visa requirements. Ensure you have all necessary travel approvals before departure.

Local Transport

Guangzhou's metro system is efficient and well-structured. It connects directly to the fair complex, offering a stress-free travel option.

Taxis are also abundant. However, familiarize yourself with common routes to avoid overcharging.

Airport Transfers

Airport transfers are straightforward in Guangzhou. Pre-booking a shuttle service is convenient, reducing potential hassles. Choose a service with clear drop-off and pick-up points to streamline your arrival and departure from the Canton Fair.

Here are some tips to simplify commuting:

Consider staying near the fair complex
Utilize public transport schedules to plan your trips
Explore shuttle services specifically for the fair visitors

If you don't want to waste too much energy on this, EJET Procurement's expert team is dedicated to serving you.

What to Prepare for Attending the Canton Fair?

Preparation is key to a successful Canton Fair visit. Organizing your travel, documents, and business tools ahead of time enhances your experience and increases your chances of success. Here’s what you need to prepare before your trip:

1. Travel Documents & Registration

Ensure your travel documents and fair registration are in order:

Buyer Badge & Invitation Letter: Register online on the official Canton Fair website to receive your buyer badge and invitation letter, required for entry and visa applications. Print or save both digitally.
Passport & Visa: Your passport should be valid for at least six months. Most buyers need a business/trade visa, which can take 5–10 business days to process.
Tips: Start registration and visa application early to avoid last-minute stress.

2. Business Tools & Documents

Bring essential tools to network effectively and manage transactions:

Business Cards: Carry both paper and digital versions with your name, title, company, email, phone number, and WeChat/WhatsApp ID.
Brochures & Sourcing Lists: Showcase your company, products of interest, and order volumes. Bring both physical and digital copies.
Folders or Light Bags: Keep documents, catalogs, and supplier materials organized.
Notebooks/Sticky Notes: Take notes to track suppliers and organize information.
Forms for Orders/Negotiations: Pre-prepared forms help streamline communication and transactions.

3. Digital Tools & Connectivity

Leverage technology to stay informed and connected:

Canton Fair Official App: Provides real-time updates, booth information, and navigation support.
WeChat: Widely used in China for communication; set up your account before arrival.
Mobile Payments: Platforms like Alipay or WeChat Pay simplify transactions.
Translation & Navigation Apps: Overcome language barriers and navigate the fair efficiently.
VPN: Some websites require a VPN to access from China.
Local SIM/eSIM: Ensure stable internet access and connectivity.

4. Attire & On-the-Ground Essentials

Stay comfortable and professional during long fair days:

Shoes & Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and lightweight professional attire for hours of walking.
Light Luggage: Carry only essentials in a manageable bag to navigate crowded aisles.
Charged Devices & Power Bank: Keep phones, tablets, and other devices powered throughout the day.
Business Cards: Present with both hands to show respect and professionalism.

Tip: Consider hiring a Canton Fair on-site guide, such as EJET Procurement, to maximize efficiency.

5. Strategy & Navigation

Plan your visit to make the most of the vast exhibition:

Study the Fair Layout: Download the official map or app and mark key zones and booths.
Research Exhibitors: Identify potential partners and booth locations in advance.
Itinerary Planning: Prioritize high-interest booths but leave time for unexpected discoveries.
Time Management: Allocate time wisely to cover multiple phases and product zones.

6. Communication & Cultural Etiquette

Respecting local business culture fosters positive relationships:

Business Card Etiquette: Exchange cards with both hands and study the card before putting it away.
Language Tact: Use simple, clear language; avoid slang.
Scam Awareness: Verify supplier credentials, avoid deals that seem too good to be true, and protect your interests.

Tip: Approach the fair with an open mind and respect for cultural differences, investing time in building trust for long-term partnerships.

Find EJET Procurement at Canton Fair 2026

EJET Procurement will have a booth at the 139th Canton Fair 2026, and we welcome global importers, brand owners, and China sourcing teams to connect with us onsite. If you’re excited about attending the fair but unsure how to navigate its scale and complexity, EJET is here to help.

With over 20 years of China sourcing experience, we support buyers before, during, and after the Canton Fair, turning a potentially overwhelming trip into a structured, efficient, and results-driven sourcing journey.

1. Pre-Fair Sourcing Consultation & Visit Planning

Successful sourcing starts long before you arrive in Guangzhou. Before you trip to China, EJET works closely with you to understand what you are sourcing, your target pricing, order volumes, and supplier expectations.

Our pre-fair support includes:

Market and product research
Supplier background checks
Clear sourcing goal setting
Fair phase and booth visit planning

If needed, we also assist with hotel booking, transportation arrangements, and visa-related support, helping you save time and reduce travel stress. With everything prepared in advance, you can focus fully on sourcing products from China instead of logistics.

2. Full-Day On-Site Guided Support at the Fair

The Canton Fair spans 1.55 million square meters, and navigating it efficiently is critical. During your onsite visit, EJET provides full-day guided support to help you maximize every hour at the fair.

Our on-site services include:

Venue navigation and supplier introductions to the most relevant booths
Live interpretation and negotiation assistance to eliminate language barriers
Real-time sourcing advice, evaluating product quality, pricing, and supplier reliability on the spot

We stay flexible and responsive throughout the day, adjusting plans as new opportunities arise to ensure a smooth and productive experience.

3. Supplier Shortlisting & Quotation Organization

Meeting suppliers is only the first step. EJET helps you organize, compare, and shortlist suppliers after the fair so you can make confident decisions.

We support you with:

Supplier comparison based on price, MOQ, quality, and capability
Quotation collection and structured analysis
Shortlisting reliable suppliers aligned with your sourcing goals

This process saves you time and prevents confusion when following up with multiple suppliers after the fair.

4. Post-Fair Buying Agent Support

Meeting suppliers at the Canton Fair is only the beginning. After the fair, EJET Procurement acts as your trusted buying agent in China, handling the critical execution work that turns discussions into successful orders.

Our post-fair buying agent support includes:

Supplier confirmation and negotiation follow-up
Order placement and production monitoring
Pre-shipment quality inspections to ensure products meet specifications
Packaging, labeling, and compliance checks for international markets
Shipping coordination, including sea freight, air freight, or consolidated shipments
Export documentation and customs clearance support

With EJET managing the process end to end, you reduce risks, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure your orders are delivered on time and to standard.

5. Market Visits & Factory Tours Beyond the Fair

To go deeper than the exhibition floor, EJET also arranges market visits and factory tours beyond the Canton Fair, helping you verify suppliers and explore broader China sourcing options.

This service includes:

Factory visits and professional audits, either accompanied by our team or conducted on your behalf
Evaluation of production capacity, quality systems, certifications, and compliance
Visits to Yiwu wholesale market and Guangzhou industrial clusters related to your product category
On-site expert assessment of pricing competitiveness, workmanship, and reliability

These visits help you validate supplier capabilities and build confidence before committing to long-term cooperation, especially if you’re sourcing in bulk or developing private-label products.

Conclusion

Attending the Canton Fair is not just about walking booths—it’s about making the right connections and decisions. With thousands of exhibitors and limited time, having experienced local support can make all the difference.

If you’re attending the 139th Canton Fair 2026, visit EJET Procurement’s booth to discuss your sourcing goals, or book a Canton Fair guided tour with our team in advance. We’ll help you plan smarter, source better, and turn your Canton Fair visit into real business results.

FAQ

Q1: How much does it cost to attend the 139th Canton Fair 2026?

A: Costs vary by travel, accommodation, and daily expenses. Budget for flights, lodgings, meals, and local transport. Importer registration is free in 2026, but visa application fees may apply. Plan ahead to avoid unexpected costs.

Q2: How to get an invitation letter for the 139th Canton Fair 2026?

A: Apply via the official Canton Fair website. Register as an international buyer, submit required details, and download the approved electronic invitation letter (with 2026 QR code). It’s essential for visa and entry—ensure all info is accurate. Exhibitors can also assist with applications.

Q3: Where is the best place to stay for the 139th Canton Fair 2026?

A: Choose hotels near the Pazhou venue for convenience. Key areas: Pazhou (short walk/taxi), Haizhu Square (cost-effective, subway access), and Tianhe CBD (for business meetings). Book 2+ months early to secure better rates, especially during peak season.

Q4: What is the closest airport to the 139th Canton Fair 2026 venue?

A: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is the closest, ~40km from the venue. Transfer via subway, airport express, or taxi/ride-hailing. For high-speed rail arrivals, Guangzhou South Railway Station offers quicker access to Pazhou.

Q5: What should I wear to the 139th Canton Fair 2026?

A: Opt for business casual attire that’s professional and comfortable. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, lightweight fabrics for Guangzhou’s warm climate, and layers for indoor/outdoor temperature differences. Avoid overly casual clothing.

Q6: Do I need to pre-register for the 139th Canton Fair 2026, and how?

A: Pre-registration is strongly recommended (on-site has long queues). Register via the official website, submit personal/company docs, and get a QR code after approval for quick pass collection. Pre-registration opens 3 months before the fair.