Canton Fair Guide Spring 2025
Travel Sentry Resources | January 2025
Canton Fair Guide Spring 2025: How-to-Guide
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.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Canton Fair Dates
- Fair Location and Layout
- Preparation Before the Fair
- Transportation to the Fair
- Tips for Attending the Fair
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 onsite registration fee. First-time attendees should pre-register to receive an invitation letter, which is beneficial for obtaining a business visa.
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.
For Chinese mainland citizens, register here.
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.