The Ultimate Buyer's Guide to the 139th Canton Fair (Spring 2026)

If you are in global trade, the Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair) is more than an event—it is an essential pilgrimage. Held biannually in Guangzhou, it stands as the largest trade fair in China, offering unparalleled opportunities across 1.55 million square meters of exhibition space with over 32,000 exhibitors .

The 139th session (Spring 2026) will take place from April 15 to May 5, 2026, organized across three distinct phases :

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned sourcing professional, navigating this massive complex requires strategic preparation. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from visa requirements to transportation, and from badge registration to supplier verification.

1. Pre-Departure: Essential Preparation

Visa Policy Updates (Important Changes for 2026)

China has recently expanded its visa-free policies. Effective February 17, 2026, nationals from Canada and the United Kingdom holding ordinary passports may enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for business, tourism, family visits, and transit. This policy is valid through December 31, 2026 .

For other nationalities, the 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy may still apply depending on your itinerary and point of entry.

Important: Visa policies are subject to dynamic adjustments. Always verify current requirements with the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate before traveling.

Invitation Letters & Pre-registration

If you require a visa, you will need an official invitation from the Canton Fair. Pre-registration and invitation letter applications for the 139th Canton Fair opened on February 14, 2026 .

• How to Apply: Use the official Buyer Service System available on the Canton Fair website or via the Canton Fair mobile application .

• Why Register Early: Pre-registered buyers receive official updates on exhibitors and special events, and may collect complimentary souvenirs upon arrival .

• Invitation Letters: Returning buyers can apply by logging into the system; new buyers may apply while completing their badge application .

Plan Your Phase

With three distinct phases featuring different product categories, it's essential to plan which phase aligns with your sourcing needs:

• Phase 1 is ideal for buyers seeking industrial products, machinery, electronics, and hardware

• Phase 2 focuses on consumer goods, gifts, and home decor

• Phase 3 features textiles, fashion, and stationery

2. Arrival in Guangzhou: First Steps

Where to Collect Your Buyer Badge (Avoid the Crowds)

You do not need to wait until you reach the fairgrounds to obtain your badge. Multiple off-site collection points are available:

• Baiyun International Airport: Registration offices are located at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2

• Designated Hotels: Many hotels throughout Guangzhou offer badge collection services for guests

• Guangzhou South Railway Station: A checkpoint is available at this major high-speed rail hub

Required Documents:

• Your valid passport (overseas passport for foreign buyers)

• 2 business cards

• A completed registration form (if you did not pre-register online)

Seamless Payments

Guangzhou has significantly enhanced payment services for international visitors. You can now use Alipay+ (by linking your international credit card) or apply for a UnionPay "Traveler's Card" to enable smooth transactions at hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets throughout the city.

3. Navigating the Canton Fair Complex

Venue Address

China Import and Export Fair Complex
No. 382 Yuejiang Zhong Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou .

Transportation Guide (Based on Official Guangzhou Transport Guidelines)

Metro (Recommended): Line 8 is your most efficient option .

• For Area A & B: Exit at Pazhou Station (Exit A, B, or C)

• For Area C: Exit at Xingang Dong Station (Exit A)

Metro Operating Hours During the Fair :

Bus Services: Multiple bus routes serve the area, including: 229, 239, 262, 304, 582, 763, 988, B7 Express, and University Town Line 3 .

Airport Express Shuttle: A dedicated shuttle service operates between the Canton Fair Complex and Baiyun International Airport .

• Fair Pick-up/Drop-off Point: Intersection of Zhouchang Zhong Road and Zhouchang Nan Road

• Airport Pick-up Points:

  • T1 Terminal: Area A Gate 1, Area B Gate 11

  • T2 Terminal: West Passenger Station

• Operating Hours:

  • Airport to Fair: 9:00 - 16:00

  • Fair to Airport: 11:00 - 18:00

Taxis & Ride-hailing: Use reputable apps such as DiDi. Official taxi pick-up points are located at Zhouchang Zhong Road and at C Area (Huizhan South 3rd Road) .

4. Essential Tips for Successful Sourcing

What to Prepare Before Meeting Suppliers

To make the most of your conversations with exhibitors, come prepared with:

• Product specifications: Drawings, photos, or samples of what you're looking for

• Quantity requirements: Estimated annual volumes or order sizes

• Quality standards: Certifications required for your market (CE, UL, ISO, etc.)

• Budget parameters: Target price points for different quality levels

• Logistics preferences: Preferred shipping methods and Incoterms

Hiring an Interpreter (If Needed)

Unless you are fluent in Mandarin, hiring a professional interpreter can prevent costly misunderstandings. Based on industry standards, expect to pay approximately RMB 400 to 800 per day.

Interpreters require special "Interpreter Badges" to accompany you into the fair. Typical requirements include :

• Foreign language proficiency certificate or translation qualification proof

• ID card and photocopy

• Accompaniment by a foreign buyer who signs the application

Verifying Suppliers

Before committing to large orders, take these steps to verify potential suppliers:

1. Check business licenses: Ask for their business license and verify the company name matches their booth signage

2. Visit factories if possible: Schedule factory visits after the fair to assess production capabilities

3. Request samples: Always request samples before placing bulk orders

4. Check references: Ask for client references, particularly buyers from your region

5. Verify certifications: Request copies of relevant product certifications

Avoiding Common Scams (Timeless Advice)

The excitement of the fair can sometimes lead to rushed decisions. Remain vigilant. According to trade risk prevention guidelines, watch for these red flags :

Warning Signs:

• Shipping Destination Mismatches: Be cautious if a buyer claiming to be European requests shipment to countries such as Uganda, Kenya, or Togo

• Use of Free Email Accounts: Scammers often use Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail addresses (format: "companyname@gmail.com") rather than corporate email domains with verifiable websites

• Suspiciously High Prices: Suppliers who do not negotiate on price may be hiding quality issues

• Vague Company Information: Business cards lacking landline numbers or verifiable websites

Our Advice:

• For first orders, adhere to a 30% deposit upfront policy

• Always use secure payment methods (avoid wire transfers to personal accounts)

• Consider using third-party inspection services for quality control

• Insist on written contracts and confirm any account changes through multiple channels

5. Beyond the Fair: Making the Most of Guangzhou

Tax Refund for International Buyers

As a foreign buyer, you are entitled to a VAT refund on goods you purchase and take out of China. Look for "Tax Free" signage in shops, particularly in downtown duty-free stores and major shopping malls. Guangzhou Customs has implemented streamlined measures to facilitate the tax refund process for international visitors .

Exploring Guangzhou

While the fair is your primary focus, Guangzhou offers rich experiences for visitors:

• Canton Tower: The iconic landmark of Guangzhou, offering panoramic city views

• Beijing Road: A vibrant pedestrian shopping street blending modern retail with historical archaeological sites

• Shamian Island: A historic area featuring colonial-era architecture, ideal for relaxed evening strolls

• Cantonese Cuisine: Don't miss the opportunity to try authentic dim sum and Cantonese dishes

Where to Stay

For convenient access to the fair, consider accommodations based on your phase:

• Phase 1 attendees: Hotels near Pazhou Complex or along Metro Line 8

• Popular areas: Tianhe District (business hub), Haizhu District (close to fairgrounds), or Zhujiang New Town

6. Spotlight: Phase 1 Industrial & Machinery Section

For buyers specifically interested in industrial products, machinery, and hardware, Phase 1 (April 15-19) is your primary destination. This phase features thousands of exhibitors across categories including:

• Industrial machinery and equipment

• Hardware and tools

• Construction machinery

• Electrical equipment

• General machinery and machine parts

Within the General Machinery section, you'll find a wide range of specialized industrial products, from ventilation solutions to power transmission components. Many exhibitors in this section are experienced exporters with custom manufacturing capabilities.

Note: As you explore Phase 1, you'll encounter numerous specialized manufacturers. Take time to compare offerings, as quality and capabilities can vary significantly between suppliers.

Quick Reference: Spring 2026 Canton Fair

Connect with Us at the Fair

We are a specialized manufacturer of flexible ducting and ventilation solutions, exhibiting at the 139th Canton Fair, Phase 1 (April 15-19, 2026) .

Our Product Range:

• PCA Hoses (Pre-Conditioned Air Hoses for aircraft ground supply)

• High-Temperature Fiberglass Ducting (for factories, boilers, welding exhaust)

• Insulated Ducting (thermal-efficient ventilation hoses)

• Anti-Static Ducting (for sensitive industrial environments)

• PVC & Oxford Cloth Ventilation Hoses (general industrial ventilation)

Visit Us: Booth 19.2G36 (General Machinery Section, Area 19.2)

Schedule a Meeting: Contact us in advance to book a dedicated consultation at our booth.

About This Guide

This guide was prepared using verified information from official sources including the Canton Fair official website, Guangzhou municipal transport authorities, and China's National Immigration Administration. All visa policy information reflects announcements as of February 2026. Readers are advised to confirm current requirements with official channels before travel, as policies may be subject to change.