If you are a Singapore-based importer, retailer, e-commerce operator or wholesale distributor heading to the Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair), this guide is tailored precisely for you.
Drawing on trusted travel and trade insights, we break down registration rules, transport, accommodation, on-site hacks and Singapore-specific compliance.
The Canton Fair, officially named the China Import and Export Fair, is the world’s oldest, largest and most influential comprehensive trade fair, renowned as the“First Exhibition of China”. Launched in 1957, it is held bi-annually in Guangzhou (spring and autumn editions), serving as a pivotal bridge connecting verified Chinese manufacturers with global buyers, importers, retailers and distributors.
Tailored for cross-border trade, the fair showcases a full spectrum of industrial and consumer products, cutting-edge innovations and competitive factory-direct pricing.
Source: Canton Fair Official
The Canton Fair is split into three themed phases to avoid overcrowding. Align your travel dates to target your niche.
Phase | Dates | Key Product Categories | Best For |
Phase 1 | 15 – 19 April | Consumer electronics, home appliances, lighting, hardware, machinery, auto parts, new energy | Tech retailers, smart home sellers, industrial suppliers |
Phase 2 | 23 – 27 April | Home goods, kitchenware, furniture, gifts, toys, sports gear, beauty & personal care | Lifestyle shops, home decor retailers, gift & toy distributors |
Phase 3 | 1 – 5 May | Apparel, footwear, textiles, office supplies, food & beverages, medical supplies, pet products | Fashion boutiques, FMCG importers, stationery & healthcare sellers |
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Source: cantonfair.net
Following the latest official registration rules, the buyer badge is your only entry pass. On-site registration is costly and time-consuming. Pre-registration is strongly advised!
The Canton Fair Complex (located in Pazhou, Haizhu District, Guangzhou) is one of the largest modern exhibition centres in the world.
Boasting a total land area of over 1.1 million square metres and indoor exhibition space exceeding 330,000 square metres.
Equipped with dedicated buyer service centres, registration counters, interpretation service desks, luggage storage, currency exchange points, multi-cuisine food courts, business centres and free public Wi-Fi.
Directly connected to Guangzhou Metro Line 8 (Pazhou Station), with dedicated airport shuttle bus routes, ample parking and nearby premium hotels.
Exhibition halls are arranged by product category and fair phase. Additional amenities include meeting rooms for business negotiations, courier service counters for sample shipping and first-aid stations for on-site support.
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Source: cantonfair.org
Transport Mode | Details | Suitability |
Metro | Line 8 (Pazhou Station) – direct to the fair complex; RMB 2–10 per ride | Cheapest, most reliable; avoid traffic jams |
Airport Shuttle | Direct bus from Baiyun Airport to Canton Fair Complex; 40 mins, RMB 25 | Perfect for arrivals with luggage |
Ride-Hailing | DiDi (Chinese Uber); accept international cards via Alipay/WeChat Pay | Comfortable for group travel or late nights |
Choose accommodation close to the venue to save commute time. Hotels fill up fast during the fair, so book early. These options are popular for convenience and service.
Hotel Type | Recommended Hotels | Distance to Venue | Key Perks |
Luxury | 5–10 mins walk/drive | English staff, business facilities, badge collection on-site | |
Mid-Range | 10–15 mins drive | Affordable, clean, shuttle service to the fair | |
Budget | Local chain hotels in Haizhu District | 15–20 mins metro ride | Cost-effective, basic amenities, easy metro access |
To avoid import issues back in Singapore, follow these critical rules when sourcing at the fair:
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The Canton Fair is a goldmine for quality sourcing, but success relies on pre-trip preparation. Complete your badge registration and visa early, book transport and accommodation in advance, and focus on suppliers that understand rules. For the latest updates and official registration, visit the Canton Fair Official Website.
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