139th China Canton Fair 2026 – Complete Buyer’s Guide

The 139th Canton Fair 2026, officially known as the China Import and Export Fair, is the world’s largest and most influential trade exhibition. Held biannually in Guangzhou, this global event attracts manufacturers, wholesalers, importers, retailers, and business leaders from over 200 countries

What Is the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair is China’s premier international trade exhibition, organized by the Ministry of Commerce of China. Since its launch in 1957, it has become the most trusted sourcing platform for:

• Verified Chinese manufacturers

• New product launches & innovations

• Factory-direct pricing and MOQ negotiations

• Long-term supplier relationships

If you’re serious about imports, private labels, or bulk sourcing, the Canton Fair is unmatched.

Canton Fair 2026 Dates and Schedule

The China Canton Fair 2026 is conducted twice a year, once in spring and once in autumn, to help global buyers source products at different business cycles.

Spring Canton Fair 2026 Schedule (139th Canton Fair)

• Phase 1: April 15 – April 19, 2026

• Phase 2: April 23 – April 27, 2026

• Phase 3: May 01 – May 05, 2026

Autumn Canton Fair 2026 Schedule (140th Canton Fair)

• Phase 1: October 15 – October 19, 2026

• Phase 2: October 23 – October 27, 2026

• Phase 3: October 31 – November 04, 2026

Understanding the Three Phases: Products & Categories

Phase 1 – Industrial & Electronics

• Consumer Electronics & Home Appliances

• Electrical Equipment & Lighting

• Machinery, Hardware & Tools

• Vehicles, Auto Parts & Industrial Automation

Phase 2 – Lifestyle & Home

• Building Materials & Sanitary Ware

• Furniture & Home Décor

• Gifts, Handicrafts & Garden Products

• Household Items & Tableware

Phase 3 – Fashion, FMCG & Healthcare

• Textiles & Garments

• Footwear, Bags & Fashion Accessories

• Food & Beverages

• Medical Devices & Healthcare Products

  
  

Pro Tip: Choose your phase carefully, attending the wrong phase means missing the right suppliers.

How to Register for Canton Fair 2026

Registration for international buyers is FREE.

Steps:

1. Register online via the official Canton Fair website

2. Upload passport & business details

3. Receive Buyer Invitation Letter

4. Collect your Buyer Badge on arrival (or via overseas offices)

Who Should Attend the Canton Fair 2026?

The Canton Fair is ideal for:

• Importers & Wholesalers

• Retail & E-commerce Business Owners

• Distributors & Agents

• Startup Founders & Brand Builders

• Procurement Heads & Sourcing Managers

Visa Requirements for International Buyers

International buyers planning to attend the China Canton Fair 2026 must ensure they have the correct visa based on the purpose of their visit. Below is a clear and practical guide to help you plan smoothly.

Types of Chinese Visas for Canton Fair Visitors

• M Visa (Business Visa) – Most recommendedIdeal for buyers attending trade fairs, sourcing products, negotiating with suppliers, or conducting business meetings.

• L Visa (Tourist Visa)Suitable for visitors attending the fair for general visits or exploration, but not recommended for active business negotiations.

• F Visa (Non-commercial Exchange Visa)Used for short-term exchanges, visits, or non-commercial activities. Limited use for trade-related purposes.

Best option for Canton Fair: China Business (M) Visa

Required Documents for Canton Fair Visa Application

Most foreign nationals need to apply for a China Business (M) Visa to attend the Canton Fair. Trade fairs, sourcing activities, and supplier meetings fall under this category.

Eligibility & Checklist for China Business (M) Visa – Canton Fair

Qualifying Purpose

Attending trade fairs, sourcing products, meeting suppliers, or factory discussions—all officially covered under the M visa category.

Official Invitation Letter

• Canton Fair Invitation Letter (electronic or paper)

• Must include applicant’s name, nationality, and company details

• Applicants must be 18 years or older to receive an invitation

Valid Travel Documents

• Passport with minimum 6 months validity

• At least 2 blank visa pages

• Recent colour passport photographs as per Chinese visa guidelines

Application Materials

• Completed online visa application form with confirmation page

• Additional documents if requested by the consulate

• Some embassies may request:

  • Inviting company’s business license

  • Copy of inviter’s ID

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

International buyers planning to attend the China Canton Fair 2026 must ensure they have the correct visa based on the purpose of their visit. Below is a clear and practical guide to help you plan smoothly.

1. What are the Canton Fair 2026 dates?

The Canton Fair 2026 will be held in two sessions:

• Spring Session (139th Canton Fair): April 15 – May 05, 2026

• Autumn Session (140th Canton Fair): October 15 – November 04, 2026Each session is conducted in three phases, focusing on different product categories.

2. How can I register for Canton Fair 2026?

You can register online for free through the official Canton Fair website by submitting your passport and business details. After approval, you will receive a Buyer Invitation Letter and can collect your buyer badge in Guangzhou or overseas offices.

3. Is Canton Fair 2026 registration free?

Yes. Canton Fair registration is completely FREE for all international buyers. There is no entry fee to attend the exhibition.

4. Do Indians need a visa to attend the Canton Fair 2026?

Yes. Indian passport holders require a China business visa to attend the Canton Fair. Visa processing typically requires an invitation letter and supporting documents.

5. Which Canton Fair phase should I attend?

Your ideal phase depends on your business:

• Phase 1: Electronics, machinery, vehicles, tools

• Phase 2: Building materials, furniture, interiors, gifts

• Phase 3: Garments, shoes, bags, medical, food & FMCG

Attending the correct phase is critical for meeting the right suppliers.

6. Is the Canton Fair worth attending in 2026?

Yes. The Canton Fair is the largest trade fair in the world, offering factory-direct access, competitive pricing, new product launches, and long-term sourcing opportunities—making it highly valuable for importers and business owners.

7. Can I Attend the Canton Fair 2026 Without a Business?

Yes. You can attend the China Canton Fair 2026 even without a registered business. Individuals, startups, and first-time buyers can register for free using a valid passport and buyer registration.

8. How to Find the Best Suppliers and Factories at the Canton Fair?

Shortlist exhibitors in advance, focus on manufacturers (not traders), and compare at least 3–5 suppliers based on MOQ, certifications, and export experience. Factory visits after the fair help confirm quality and secure better pricing.