The China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, is the largest and most comprehensive trade fair in China. Held twice a year in Guangzhou, it attracts hundreds of thousands of overseas buyers and showcases products from tens of thousands of exhibitors. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned importer, proper preparation is essential to maximise your sourcing results and turn your China business plans into reality.
| Session | Dates (Tentative) | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Session (137th Canton Fair) | April 15 – May 5, 2026 (Phase 1: Apr 15-19, Phase 2: Apr 23-27, Phase 3: May 1-5) | China Import and Export Fair Complex, Pazhou, Guangzhou |
| Autumn Session (138th Canton Fair) | October 15 – November 4, 2026 (Phase 1: Oct 15-19, Phase 2: Oct 23-27, Phase 3: Oct 31-Nov 4) |
Please note that official dates may be adjusted. Always verify on the Canton Fair official website before making travel arrangements.
All overseas visitors must hold a valid Buyer Badge to enter the fair. Registration is free and can be done online or on-site.
Most foreign buyers will need a China M visa (business visa) to attend the Canton Fair. To apply for the M visa, you will usually need an invitation letter from a Chinese business partner or the fair organiser.
Guangzhou is a major transportation hub with direct international flights to most countries. The fair complex is located in Pazhou, easily accessible by Metro Line 8 and Line 11.
Many foreign buyers use the Canton Fair as a starting point to establish long-term business operations in China. Finerise offers a complete range of services to help you set up and run your business smoothly after the fair:
No. All foreign visitors must register for a buyer badge. You can pre-register online before the fair or register on-site with your passport, business card, and a recent photo. Pre-registration is strongly recommended to avoid long queues.
Most foreign buyers use an M visa (business visa) to attend Canton Fair. You will need an invitation letter from the Canton Fair organiser or a Chinese business partner. Finerise can assist you in obtaining the invitation letter and M visa application support.
You can request an official invitation letter through the Canton Fair's online buyer registration system. Alternatively, if you are planning to set up a company in China, your agent can provide a business invitation letter. Finerise provides invitation letter support for our clients.
Yes. Many foreign buyers decide to establish a WFOE or representative office in Guangzhou or Foshan after sourcing products at the fair. Finerise provides complete company registration, virtual office address, and bank account opening services to help you start your China operations quickly.
Yes. Finerise also handles Hong Kong company formation, bank account opening in Hong Kong, and annual compliance. This is a popular option for buyers who want to use Hong Kong as a trading or holding entity for their China sourcing activities.
Founded in 2005, Finerise Consultants has been committed to company registration management, offshore company registration, overseas investment services, foreign investment services, financial and tax agency consulting, intellectual property agency and other fields. We provide professional, fast, attentive, secure, and cost-effective services. Welcome to consult!
Brilliance Consultants International Limited
Guangzhou Finerise Management & Consultants Co., Ltd.
Guangzhou Finerise Intellectual Property Service Co., Ltd
Guangzhou Finerise Management & Consultants Co., Ltd. Foshan Branch
Guangzhou WeChat
Foshan WeChat
