Posted by: Vishvabandhu Patel
The Canton Fair, officially known as the China Import and Export Fair, is the world’s largest trade exhibition. Held twice a year in Guangzhou, China, it connects global buyers directly with verified Chinese manufacturers across electronics, machinery, textiles, consumer goods and industrial products.
For Indian importers, wholesalers, Amazon sellers, construction material traders and startup founders, Canton Fair 2026 presents a powerful sourcing opportunity. Attending without proper planning, however, can lead to missed opportunities and unnecessary expenses.
This complete guide covers Canton Fair 2026 dates, phases, venue details, registration process, visa planning, travel logistics and business strategy. It is designed specifically for first-time visitors from India.
If you are looking for a Canton Fair tour package from India, this guide will also help you understand what to expect.
Canton Fair 2026 Dates – Spring Session
The Spring 2026 Canton Fair (139th Edition) will be held in three phases:
| Phase | Dates | Major Product Categories |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | April 15 – April 19, 2026 | Electronics, Machinery, Industrial Equipment, Vehicles, Building Materials |
| Phase 2 | April 23 – April 27, 2026 | Consumer Goods, Home Decor, Gifts, Furniture |
| Phase 3 | May 1 – May 5, 2026 | Textiles, Apparel, Office Supplies, Health Products |
Exhibition hours are typically 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Each phase focuses on different industries. Choosing the correct phase is critical to maximise your sourcing efficiency.
If you are unsure which phase aligns with your product category, our team can guide you before you finalise your Canton Fair travel package from India.
Canton Fair 2026 Location
Venue: China Import and Export Fair Complex
Location: Pazhou Island, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
Nearest Metro: Pazhou Station (Line 8)
Nearest Airport: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
The exhibition complex is massive and divided into multiple halls. Expect to walk extensively each day. Comfortable footwear and a planned hall route are essential.
We recommend staying near Pazhou or Haizhu District for easy daily access.
How to Choose the Right Phase for Your Business
Many first-time visitors attend the wrong phase and miss relevant suppliers. Use this quick checklist:
Choose Phase 1 if you deal in:
- Electrical goods
- Machinery
- Lighting
- Construction materials
- Automotive parts
Choose Phase 2 if you focus on:
- Home decor
- Furniture
- Gifts and handicrafts
- Kitchenware
Choose Phase 3 if you source:
- Garments
- Textiles
- Medical supplies
- Office products
If your sourcing spans multiple industries, consider extending your stay and attending more than one phase.
Who Should Attend Canton Fair 2026?
Canton Fair is ideal for:
- Import-export businesses
- Retail chain buyers
- E-commerce and Amazon sellers
- Construction companies
- Electronics traders
- Textile importers
- OEM private label startups
If your goal is to negotiate directly with manufacturers and avoid intermediaries, this fair is unmatched.
Registration and Buyer Badge Process
Step 1: Pre-register online on the official Canton Fair portal.
Step 2: Obtain an official invitation letter.
Step 3: Apply for China Business Visa (M Visa).
Step 4: Collect buyer badge at the venue using passport and confirmation.
Important:
- Pre-registration saves time and avoids on-site delays.
- Invitation letter is required for visa processing.
- Keep digital and printed copies of all documents.
If you need guidance on the China business visa process, we provide complete China visa assistance from India for business travellers.
China Visa Requirements for Indian Visitors
Indian attendees typically require:
- China Business Visa (M Visa)
- Official invitation letter
- Valid passport (minimum six months validity)
- Confirmed hotel booking
- Return flight booking
Recommended timeline:
| Timeline | Action |
|---|---|
| January 2026 | Finalise phase selection |
| January to February | Apply for visa |
| February | Book flights |
| February to March | Confirm hotel |
Start visa processing at least 60 to 90 days before departure.
Where to Stay During Canton Fair 2026
Hotel demand during Canton Fair is extremely high. Recommended areas include:
- Pazhou (closest to venue)
- Haizhu District
- Tianhe District
Business travellers often prefer:
- 4-star or 5-star hotels
- Daily breakfast
- Metro connectivity
- Flexible check-in
Hotel prices increase significantly closer to event dates. We provide Guangzhou hotel booking assistance as part of our China business travel packages.
Estimated Budget Planning for Indian Visitors
Budget varies depending on departure city and hotel category. Typical cost components include:
- Return flight from India to Guangzhou
- 4 to 6 nights hotel stay
- Visa and international travel insurance
- Local metro and transport
- Meals and networking expenses
We recommend allocating additional funds for supplier samples and business dinners.
You can request a customised Canton Fair 2026 travel quote based on your departure city and preferred stay category.
Smart Business Strategy for Canton Fair
Serious buyers gain advantage with a structured approach.
Before You Travel
- Shortlist product categories
- Define MOQ expectations
- Prepare a supplier checklist
- Create a brief business introduction deck
During the Fair
- Note booth numbers
- Compare suppliers
- Collect catalogues
- Discuss pricing but avoid finalising contracts immediately
After the Fair
- Evaluate quotations
- Request product samples
- Conduct supplier background checks
- Negotiate final contracts
Many successful importers treat Canton Fair as supplier discovery, not final purchase closure.
Sample 5-Day Business Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Guangzhou, hotel check-in, badge collection
Day 2: Attend Phase selected, focused supplier meetings
Day 3: Attend Phase selected, price comparison and networking
Day 4: Follow-up meetings and optional factory visits
Day 5: Departure
For group delegations, we also organise international business delegation tours with coordinated travel schedules.
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Wear business casual attire
- Carry sufficient business cards
- Use translation apps
- Bring a portable charger
- Stay hydrated
- Plan hall visits in advance
Expect 10,000 to 15,000 steps daily.
Why Book Canton Fair Travel with Aasaan Holidays?
International business travel requires precision planning. With Aasaan Holidays, you receive:
- China visa assistance from India
- Flight coordination
- Strategic hotel booking near Pazhou
- Airport transfer services
- Customised business itinerary planning
- Corporate travel management services
- Trade fair travel packages tailored for Indian buyers
We understand that your goal is sourcing efficiency, not just travel convenience.
Final Thoughts
Canton Fair 2026 is more than an exhibition. It is a global sourcing platform that can significantly impact your supply chain and profit margins.
The difference between a productive trip and an expensive mistake lies in selecting the correct phase, planning visa early, staying close to the venue, having a sourcing strategy, and coordinating logistics professionally.
If you are planning to attend Canton Fair 2026, explore our Canton Fair travel package from India designed specifically for business buyers.
Canton Fair 2026 bookings are now open.
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Call or WhatsApp: +917567224488
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