Beginners guide: everything you need to know before coming to the 135th Canton Fair
With the 135th Canton Fair being just around the corner, it can feel both exciting and nerve-racking at the same time. Whether you are a first timer or have been to the Canton Fair before, this guide will cover invaluable insights into international business, such as China’s industrial belt distribution, how to purchase competitive products, and everything else to help you make the most out of your experience at the fair!
You can also watch our YouTube video on the 135th Canton Fair here!
About the Canton Fair
The Canton Fair, also commonly known as the China Import and Export Fair, is the largest event in global commerce. The fair not only offers great opportunity for businesses to showcase their latest and hottest products, meet with consumers and potential customers, and network with other professionals in the industry, but also buyers an opportunity to check out the latest items and trends in the industry. The first Canton Fair was held back in 1957, making it China’s oldest and largest international trade fair. It is held biannually in Guangzhou, China, one in the Spring and one in Fall. The Spring session usually takes place in April, and the Fall session typically takes place in October.
This fair is open to anyone who is looking to explore business opportunities or develop partnerships with Chinese manufacturers and suppliers. For example, a few of the types of groups that will be attending the fair may include manufacturers who would like to showcase their products and interact with other industry professionals; business owners/entrepreneurs interested in new products to expand their business; importers and exporters looking to explore new markets in China; sales and marketing professionals interested in learning about the latest items and industry trends; as well as students, researchers and scholars looking to gain insight into China’s economy.
With the growing popularity and number of people attending the Canton Fair each year, the fair currently stands as a premier platform for international trade that showcases a vast spectrum of product samples across diverse industries, attracting buyers, visitors and sellers from all over the world.
This year, the Canton Fair is scheduled from April 15th to May 5th, 2024, spanning three weeks of rich networking opportunities, product sourcing avenues, and collaborative ventures. The fair will be taking place at the Westin Pazhou, Canton Fair Complex at Guangzhou, the exhibition hall area covers 3000-square-meters, making it possibly the largest exhibition hall in China.
With just less than 30 days left before the 135th Canton Fair kicks off, timely preparation is crucial for prospective participants. If you’re new to China, do not fret as we will be guiding you through a step-by-step process of how to secure a buyer badge and obtaining a Chinese visa.
Phases of the Canton Fair
The fair is segmented into three phases, with each phase spotlighting distinct product categories.
Canton Fair Phase 1
Exhibition dates: April 15th to April 19th
Scope of exhibits: Electronics & Household Electrical Appliances, Lighting Equipment, Vehicles & Spare Parts, Machinery, Hardware & Tools, and Building Materials.
Canton Fair Phase 2
Exhibition dates: April 23rd to April 27th
Scope of exhibits: Consumer Goods, Home Decorations, Gifts, and Toys.
Canton Fair Phase 3
Exhibition dates: May 1st to May 5th
Scope of exhibits: Textiles & Garments, Shoes, Office Supplies, Cases & Bags, Recreation Products, Medical Devices and Health Products, Food, and International Pavilion.
MU Group at the Canton Fair
Established in late 2003, MU Group has over 60 business divisions and subsidiaries specializing in export trade and cross-border e-commerce. Our business divisions offer a wide range of products:
- Lighting: decorative table lamps, LED lights, outdoor solar lights, outdoor camping lights
- Toys: games, pet toys/supplies, baby care items, baby toys, silicone toys, novelty toys, wooden toys, plush toys, educational toys, DIY kits craft sets
- Household appliances and personal care items: LED cosmetic mirror, cleaning brush, beauty items, stationery, kitchenware and bathroom tools
- Festive and holiday related decorations: Christmas ornaments, greeting cards, gift bags
Over the years, MU Group has grown rapidly into one of Zhejiang Province’s largest marketing companies. We have numerous showrooms in China, and our showroom at the Guangzhou Westin Hotel (adjacent to the Canton Fair) spans in 3,000 square meters. To get to MU Group’s showroom from the fair, you can simply cross the bridge at Area C. Our showroom carries a wide variety of products, from general home appliances, supplies for storage spaces, kitchenware and bathroom supplies, to lights, toys, personal beauty care products and much more.
Over 1000 employees of MU Group will be attending the 135th Canton Fair to present a plethora of products to our customers; our booths are also located in different booths during the three phases, so be sure to check them out. Our team will be wearing our company’s bright blue and pink uniform at the Fair (like Benben is wearing in the YouTube video and in the photo below), so you can reach out to them if you have any questions. If you require translation services in English or other minority languages, our team offers translation as well.
Final Thoughts
With such a diverse range of products and industries represented, the Canton Fair offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses to explore new markets, forge lasting partnerships, and stay updated in the ever-evolving global marketplace. Whether you are an experienced importer or exporter, or just dipping your toes into international trade, the Canton Fair is a must-attend event.
In this guide, we have only covered the basics of what to expect at the Canton Fair. In the next couple of blogs, we will be delving into specific procedures and tips to ensure your visit to China is smooth and enjoyable, and that you can make the most of your visit to the fair.
So, mark your calendars, prepare your business cards, and get ready to experience the opportunities that wait for you at the 2024 Spring Canton Fair!