China’s premier trade event, the Canton Fair, is kicking off this week! For the uninitiated, the China Import and Export Fair, famously known as the Canton Fair, graces Guangzhou every spring and autumn. This year, it’s set to make a mark from Oct. 15 to Nov. 4.
Historically, each edition of the Canton Fair has consistently attracted over 25,000 exhibitors for decades, earning the title of China’s most expansive trade show. However, recent times, marred by global pandemics and economic volatilities, have cast a shadow over this prestigious event. In fact, even the spring edition — despite being the first after China reopened its borders — was notably dampened by geopolitical tensions, economic woes, and steep travel costs. Consequently, many Western purchasing delegations opted out.
Looking to reinvigorate the event, organizers are pulling out all the stops to ensure the autumn edition surpasses expectations. Let’s see if it works!
So, What’s New?
Refreshed Branding
Regulars will first notice that the Canton Fair’s marketing has received a noticeable facelift this season. After enduring years of a notoriously user-unfriendly experience, the website has been greatly enhanced, and its social channels are now disseminating a wealth of useful information. If you’re coming to Guangzhou, their account is worth following on WeChat for the latest updates (search Canton Fair on the app).
Reimagined Exhibition Sections
There have also been significant changes to the Exhibition Sections. It’s essential to double-check which sectors most relevant to you have moved, as the time of the month you plan to attend the fair in China may have changed.
Products spanning “Toys, Children, Baby and Maternity, Pet Products & Food, Personal Care Products, and Toiletries,” traditionally housed in Phase 1 (Oct. 15 – 19), will now unfurl in Phase 3 (Oct. 31 – Nov. 4). This is significant news for e-commerce businesses arriving in town.
Check out the official site for a complete list of when and where each exhibition is taking place.
Expedited Immigration
Ensuring a seamless entry experience, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and Pazhou Ferry Terminal have dedicated channels for the Canton Fair. Attendees furnished with necessary documents — including Canton Fair badges, pre-registration documents, or invitation letters — can anticipate swift customs clearance.
For a comprehensive travel guide, “That’s Guangzhou” offers a detailed guide here.
Streamlined Badge Applications
Modifications have been made to simplify the buyer’s badge application process. As always, overseas buyers entering the complex must hold a buyer badge. However, those possessing previous badges can reuse them for unhindered entry.
New applicants or those seeking renewals should initiate an online pre-registration, which can be executed via a QR scan (below) or a direct website visit (reserved for first-time applications).
Once completed, you can present the confirmation receipt, your visa, and a business card at specified registration counters once you arrive in China, many of which operate round-the-clock. Counter locations can be found in designated hotels, Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, and Hong Kong.
More Events in Guangzhou to Explore During the Fair
E-commerce Networking Event
For e-commerce sellers marking Guangzhou on their map, the FBA4U Amazon Sellers Networking event on Oct. 25 is a golden opportunity. Those familiar with Chris’s gatherings vouch for its conducive environment fostering networking, experience-sharing, and learning. Another meeting will be hosted on Nov. 1 during Phase 3.
Optimizing your Supply Chain
A precursor event put on by the British Chamber of Commerce Guangdong for purchasers heading to the Canton fair. Kinyu SCM’s CEO Benjamin King and Richard Zhang, partner of GTL law firm and designated legal expert for Canton Fair, will be talking about improving communication with suppliers and protecting buyer interest respectively. Click here to sign up!
Engage with Kinyu in Guangzhou
Kinyu is based in Guangzhou, so if you’re visiting and contemplating hiring local talent in China, don’t hesitate to reach out. Arrange a meeting with one of our team members, or delve deeper into our offerings by downloading a case study!
