Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first timer, this guide will help you navigate the Canton Fair Complex, maximize your visit, and make the most of your time here. The 136th Canton Fair 2024 is scheduled to open on October 15th, 2024.
The Onsite Exhibition
Canton Fair 2024 Phase 1: October 15th to 19th
Consumer Electronics and Information Products, Household Electrical Appliances, Spare Parts, Lighting Equipment, Electronic and Electrical Products, Hardware, Tools
Canton Fair 2024 Phase 2: October 23rd to 27th
General Ceramics, Household Items, Kitchenware & Tableware, Weaving, Rattan, and Iron Products, Gardening Products, Home Decorations, Festival Products, Gifts and Premiums, Glass Artware, Art Ceramics, Clocks, Watches & Optical Instruments, Building and Decorative Materials, Sanitary and Bathroom Equipment, Furniture
Canton Fair 2024 Phase 3: October 31st to November 4th
Home Textiles, Carpets & Tapestries, Men and Women’s Clothing, Underwear, Sports and Casual Wear, Furs, Leather, Downs & Related Products, Fashion Accessories and Fittings, Textile Raw Materials & Fabrics, Shoes, Cases and Bags, Food, Sports, Travel and Recreation Products, Medicines, Health Products and Medical Devices, Pet Products & Food, Toiletries, Personal Care Products, Office Supplies, Toys, Kids’ Wear, Children, Baby & Maternity Products
Before You Go: Preparation and Planning
1.Check Your Visa Requirements and the 144-Hour Visa-Free Policy
Stay updated on your visa requirements, as China has relaxed restrictions for certain nationalities. The 144-hour visa-free policy allows citizens from over 50 countries to enter Guangzhou without a visa, provided they stay less than 144 hours and have a confirmed onward ticket. Always check the latest updates from the Chinese consulate or embassy in your country.
2.Pre-Registration: Before heading to the fair, make sure you pre-register online for your badge. This step is crucial as it allows you to fill out your company information in advance, which will make picking up your badge a breeze. On arrival, you can collect your badge at Hall A or at about 39 different hotels, please refer this Canton fair hotel list, which is conveniently connected to the fairgrounds. Pre-registration not only speeds up the entry process but also ensures you have all necessary credentials ready for a smooth start.
3.What to Wear: The fair requires a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Opt for trainers or any footwear that you find supportive and comfortable. There is no strict dress code at the fair; you can choose to wear anything from a suit and tie to a casual T-shirt and jeans. The key is to dress in a way that makes you feel both comfortable and professional. Focus on being serious about your business while ensuring that you’re at ease throughout the event.
4.Essential Items to Bring:
- Notepad and Pen: Keep a notepad handy for jotting down important details and taking notes during conversations with suppliers. Even if you’re taking photos, it’s easy to forget who you talked to and what was discussed. A notepad will help you keep track of key points, pricing, and follow-up actions.
- Phone and Charger: Ensure your phone is fully charged before you arrive. A power bank is also a good idea since you’ll likely be using your phone frequently for taking photos, adding WeChat, and possibly navigating the fairgrounds.
- Positive Attitude: Don’t forget to bring a smile and a positive attitude. The fair is an excellent opportunity for networking, discovering new products, and building relationships, so approach it with enthusiasm and openness.
- Install WeChat: Try to install WeChat as you could as this is the major communication tool for you to connect with your suppliers in the future.
Navigating the Fair: What to Expect
1.Arrival and Information Booth: When you first arrive at the fair, head straight to the information booth. Here, you can pick up a guide and map, which will be incredibly helpful in planning your day. The guide provides an overview of the fair phases, dates, and product categories on display. Ensure that the phase you’re visiting aligns with the products you’re interested in. The map will help you understand the layout of Halls A, B, C, and D, making it easier to find specific booths and categories.
The staff at the information booth are friendly and willing to assist, so don’t hesitate to ask for additional guides or help with planning your visit. Once you’re equipped with your guide and map, you’re ready to explore the halls. You can also get a Canton Fair pin at the information booth, which can show you’re the experienced buyers with more pins. J
2.Exploring Product Categories: Each phase of the fair focuses on different product categories. As you walk through the halls, you’ll encounter various aisles filled with products ranging from medical equipment to fashion items. A good strategy is to start by walking down the central aisles. This gives you a broad overview of what’s available and helps you identify areas of interest.
If you’re specifically interested in office supplies, for example, you’ll find a variety of products in this category. This is a great opportunity to discover new ideas, meet suppliers, and get a sense of the latest trends. If you find something that piques your interest, you can delve deeper by exploring individual lanes and booths.
3.Meeting Suppliers: When interacting with suppliers, take a relaxed approach. Engage in conversations about their products, trends, and their experience at the fair. There’s no pressure to place orders on the spot. Building relationships and enjoying the conversation is crucial. Even if you don’t do business immediately, staying in touch with suppliers can be valuable in the future.
4.Taking Notes and Photos: To keep track of your meetings and the information you gather, take photos with suppliers and their business cards. This will help you remember who you talked to and where they were located. Each booth has a number, so make sure to note that as well. This information is particularly useful if you want to revisit a supplier later for more details or to negotiate pricing. Remember, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of booths, so documenting your interactions can save you time and effort. A special tip, most returned suppliers keep their booth location every year.
Special Sections and Highlights
1.Design Award Hall: One of the highlights of the fair is the Design Award Hall. This section showcases suppliers and manufacturers with the most innovative and creative designs. It’s an excellent place to find inspiration for your own products. The hall usually lists the company’s booth numbers and details, so if you see something you like, you can easily follow up with them later.
2.Sustainability Focus: Sustainability is a major trend at the fair. Look for booths that emphasize eco-friendly practices and use recycled or renewable materials. For example, some booths focus on using ocean waste and renewable plastics in their products. They often provide information about their partners and certifications for recycled materials, giving you a comprehensive understanding of their environmental impact.
3.Meeting Big vs. Small Suppliers: When it comes to suppliers, it’s beneficial to connect with both large factories and smaller operations. Larger factories may seem out of reach initially, but building relationships with them now can be advantageous as your business grows. Conversely, smaller factories might offer more immediate solutions and can be very responsive to your needs. Balancing your interactions with both types of suppliers can help you find the best options for your business. You may also find some resourceful trading companies in the fair. As my insider news, I know there are some companies having more than 10 booths at different halls for different kind of product categories.
4.Innovative Materials: An interesting trend at the fair is the use of innovative materials. For example, plastic made fabric is becoming increasingly popular due to its environmentally friendly and waterproof.
Practical Tips for a Successful Visit
1.Use the Fair’s Resources: The Canton Fair offers various resources to enhance your visit. Utilize the guides, maps, and information booths to navigate the fair efficiently. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.
2.Plan Your Day: With so many booths and products, it’s essential to plan your day carefully. Focus on key categories that align with your interests and business needs. This will help you stay organized and make the most of your time at the fair.
3.Follow Up: After the fair, make sure to follow up with the suppliers you’ve met. Send an email referencing your meeting, text them in the WeChat and include any photos or notes you took. This helps keep the conversation going and ensures you remain top of mind when it comes to placing orders or discussing new opportunities.
4.Enjoy the Experience: Lastly, remember to enjoy the fair. It’s not just about doing business; it’s also an opportunity to make new connections and have fun. Explore various booths, chat with different people, and take advantage of the diverse offerings. Whether you’re checking out the latest trends or discovering new suppliers, make the most of your visit and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Conclusion
The Canton Fair is a fantastic event for anyone looking to expand their business, discover new products, and build valuable relationships. With proper preparation and a positive attitude, you can make the most of your visit. Whether you’re exploring electrical appliances, fashion items, or innovative designs, the fair offers endless opportunities for growth and networking.