The Canton Fair, officially known as the China Import and Export Fair, is one of the largest trade shows in the world and a crucial event for businesses looking to source products from China. With thousands of Canton Fair suppliers showcasing a wide range of products, it serves as a valuable opportunity for buyers to connect with manufacturers, explore the latest trends, and negotiate deals directly.

However, navigating the fair and finding the right suppliers can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. In this guide, we will cover:

• How to prepare for the Canton Fair
  
• How to navigate the exhibition efficiently
  
• The difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the fair
  
• Whether you can buy samples at the event
  
• How to evaluate suppliers and negotiate deals
  
• The best follow-up practices after the fair
  

If you’re planning to attend the biggest fair in the world, this article will provide essential insights to help you find reliable Canton Fair suppliers and make your sourcing trip successful.

What is Canton Fair and Why is it Important?

The Canton Fair is China’s largest and longest-running trade show, held twice a year (Spring and Autumn) in Guangzhou. It is divided into three phases, with each phase covering different industries. The fair attracts over 25,000 exhibitors and hundreds of thousands of international buyers from more than 200 countries, making it a global hub for trade.

What is the Biggest Fair in the World?

Many consider the Canton Fair to be one of the biggest trade fairs in the world, alongside events like the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in the U.S. and Germany’s Hannover Messe. 

However, in terms of scale, number of exhibitors, and product diversity, the Canton Fair remains the largest comprehensive trade fair in China.

What Can You Source at the Canton Fair?

The fair features a vast range of products, including:

• Manufacture equipment (machinery, industrial tools)
  
• Electronics and home appliances
  
• Textiles and garments
  
• Furniture and home decor
  
• Gifts, toys, and accessories
  
• Medical devices and healthcare products
  

By attending, you gain direct access to manufacturers, which means better pricing, customization options, and stronger supplier relationships compared to sourcing online.

Understanding the Different Phases of Canton Fair

To maximize your trip, it’s crucial to attend the right phase based on your product category.

What is the Difference Between Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair is split into three phases:

• Phase 1 (Industrial and Technological Products)
  

It focuses on manufacturing equipment, electronics, machinery, vehicles, and building materials, making it ideal for businesses looking for high-tech and industrial products.

Key categories: automobile parts, energy solutions, hardware tools, and electrical appliances.

• Phase 2 (Consumer Goods and Home Products)
  

It features household goods, furniture, gifts, and decorative items, making it best suited for retailers, importers, and wholesalers looking for everyday consumer goods.

Key categories: kitchenware, ceramics, home textiles, personal care products, and holiday decorations.

• Phase 3 (Textiles, Fashion, and Health Products)
  

It features household goods, furniture, gifts, and decorative items, making it best suited for retailers, importers, and wholesalers looking for everyday consumer goods.

💡 Tip: Check the official exhibitor list before attending to ensure you’re visiting the right phase for your industry.

How to Prepare for the Canton Fair?

Maximize Your Visit to the Canton Fair with Proper Preparation

Preparation is essential for making the most of your Canton Fair experience. With thousands of exhibitors showcasing a wide range of products, a well-structured plan can help you navigate efficiently and connect with the right Canton Fair suppliers.

Register Early for a Smooth Entry

International buyers must register online in advance and apply for a Canton Fair badge before arrival. Early registration not only speeds up the entry process but also grants access to exhibitor details, product categories, and fair updates. By registering in advance, you can explore potential China wholesale suppliers and plan your visit strategically.

• Research and Shortlist Suppliers in Advance

The Canton Fair website provides a comprehensive list of exhibitors, categorized by industry and product type. Before the event:

Identify reliable Chinese suppliers that align with your business needs.
Shortlist potential Canton Fair manufacturers and wholesalers that match your target products.

Contact suppliers beforehand to request product catalogs, inquire about MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity), and schedule meetings at the fair.

Check supplier credentials, factory certifications, and past trade history to ensure credibility.

• Define Your Goals and Budget

To optimize your purchasing decisions, establish clear objectives for your visit:

Determine which China wholesale products you are interested in and outline specific requirements.

Set a target price range and negotiate accordingly with suppliers. Define your MOQ expectations to filter out suppliers that don’t meet your sourcing needs. Plan for sample purchases and trial orders to assess product quality before committing to bulk orders.

By following these steps, you can maximize your efficiency at the Canton Fair, build valuable supplier connections, and secure the best deals on Chinese export goods.

Find ASG in The 2025 Canton Fair

ASG is a leading sourcing company based in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, dedicated to turning your China sourcing goals into reality. Struggling with factory negotiations, language barriers, or complex logistics?

We’ve got you covered. As your one-stop sourcing partner, we connect you with trusted manufacturers, ensuring a seamless and efficient process from start to finish.

Conclusion

The Canton Fair is one of the best places to find reliable suppliers and source high-quality products directly from manufacturers. Understanding what is Canton Fair, the differences between Phase 1 and Phase 2, and whether Canton Fair suppliers offer samples will help you navigate the event with confidence.

By preparing ahead, evaluating suppliers carefully, and following up strategically, you can maximize your sourcing success at the biggest fair in the world.

Are you attending the next Canton Fair? Share your sourcing goals in the comments below!

FAQs

How to Navigate the Canton Fair Efficiently?

With thousands of exhibitors, the Canton Fair can be overwhelming—stay organized by using a map, prioritizing key suppliers, taking notes, and asking about MOQ, lead time, customization, and certifications.

Can You Buy Samples from Canton Fair?

Yes, you can buy samples at the Canton Fair, but availability and costs vary by supplier—some offer free samples, while others charge or ship them later.

How to Evaluate Suppliers at the Canton Fair?

Not all suppliers are reliable or suitable for long-term business. Here’s how to vet them on the spot:

• Check product quality – Inspect materials and workmanship.
  
• Ask about manufacturing facilities – Find out if they own a factory or are just a middleman.
  
• Request business licenses – Verify if they are a legitimate manufacturer.
  
• Compare pricing – Get multiple quotes before making a decision.