2025 Canton Fair Procurement Guide

Introduction

The Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair) is the largest trade fair in China, held biannually in Guangzhou. The 2025 edition offers a unique opportunity for international buyers to source products directly from manufacturers, negotiate competitive pricing, and build supply chain relationships. This guide will help you navigate the fair efficiently and maximize your procurement experience.

1. Key Dates and Phases

The 2025 Canton Fair will take place in three phases at the China Import and Export Complex in Guangzhou:

Phase 1 (April 15-19, 2025) – Electronics, Machinery, Vehicles, Hardware, Building Materials
Phase 2 (April 23-27, 2025) – Consumer Goods, Gifts, Home Decorations
Phase 3 (May 1-5, 2025) – Textiles, Fashion, Office Supplies, Health & Medical Products, Food

Tip: Check which phase best suits your industry and plan accordingly.

2. Pre-Fair Preparation

A. Registration and Visa

Register for the fair on the official Canton Fair website (https://www.cantonfair.org.cn).
Apply for a China business visa (M visa) well in advance.
Prepare necessary travel documents and business invitation letters if required.

B. Accommodation and Transportation

Book your hotel early, preferably near Pazhou Complex (the fair venue).
Use the Canton Fair shuttle bus, metro, or taxis for easy commuting.
Download apps like Didi (China’s Uber), Baidu Maps, and WeChat for navigation and communication.

C. Research and Scheduling

Identify the product categories and exhibitors you want to visit using the official exhibitor list.
Schedule meetings with potential suppliers in advance.
Bring enough business cards and prepare a clear purchasing list with specifications.

3. Navigating the Fair

A. Effective Booth Visits

Prioritize key suppliers and products.
Take photos of booths and products, note down important details.
Collect catalogs, samples, and brochures for post-fair review.

B. Negotiation Strategies

Discuss MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity), price, lead time, and customization options.
Compare multiple suppliers before making decisions.
Ask about certifications and quality control standards.

C. Payment and Contracts

Use L/C (Letter of Credit) or T/T (Telegraphic Transfer) for payments.
Avoid cash transactions; always request official receipts.
Ensure clear agreements on delivery terms (e.g., FOB, CIF, DDP).

4. Post-Fair Follow-Up

A. Supplier Evaluation

Shortlist suppliers based on quality, price, and service responsiveness.
Request factory audits or third-party inspections if needed.

B. Sample Orders and Quality Checks

Place a small test order to verify product quality before bulk procurement.
Use logistics partners to streamline the shipping process.

C. Building Long-Term Supplier Relationships

Maintain regular communication with suppliers via WeChat or email.
Establish contracts for stable supply and pricing.

5. Additional Tips

Language Barrier: Hire a local interpreter if needed.
Scam Awareness: Verify suppliers through business licenses and past references.
Technology: Use RFQ platforms like Alibaba, Global Sources, and Made-in-China to cross-check prices and suppliers.

Conclusion

The 2025 Canton Fair is a goldmine for businesses looking to expand their supplier base and reduce procurement costs. Proper planning, smart negotiations, and diligent follow-ups will help you secure the best deals and build sustainable business relationships. Happy sourcing!

For more details, visit the official website: https://www.cantonfair.org.cn