The Canton Fair, officially called the China Import and Export Fair, is the largest and oldest trade exhibition in China. It takes place twice a year in Guangzhou and brings together thousands of manufacturers, exporters, and international buyers from every part of the world. The fair began in 1957 and has grown to include almost every product category you can imagine, from heavy industrial machinery to fashion and consumer goods. Because of its enormous scale, the event is divided into three different phases. Each phase lasts five days and focuses on specific industries so buyers can plan their visit accordingly.

Official Dates for 2025

For the spring session of 2025 the dates are:

• Phase 1: April 15 to April 19, 2025
• Phase 2: April 23 to April 27, 2025
• Phase 3: May 1 to May 5, 2025

For the autumn session of 2025 the dates are:

• Phase 1: October 15 to October 19, 2025
• Phase 2: October 23 to October 27, 2025
• Phase 3: October 31 to November 4, 2025

Each phase runs daily from morning until late afternoon. The fair takes place at the Canton Fair Complex in the Pazhou district of Guangzhou, a modern exhibition center easily accessible by metro.

Phase 1 – Industrial, Technology and Machinery

The first phase focuses on industry, innovation, and technology. It is the place where you will find large-scale equipment, heavy tools, vehicles, and new energy solutions. The halls are filled with suppliers that represent the manufacturing heart of China.

• Electronics and electrical products
• Consumer electronics and information technology
• Lighting and LED products
• Machinery and mechanical equipment
• Hardware and tools
• Building materials and chemical products
• Vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and spare parts
• Power and energy equipment
• Industrial automation and intelligent manufacturing
• New materials and renewable energy technologies
• Construction and agricultural machinery

Buyers attending this phase are usually from sectors such as construction, infrastructure, renewable energy, and industrial production.

Phase 2 – Consumer Goods, Home and Decoration

The second phase is a colorful and lively exhibition dedicated to the world of home, lifestyle, and creativity. Here the halls are full of items designed for daily life and home use, from elegant furniture to decorative accessories.

• Furniture and outdoor living
• Household products and kitchenware
• Tableware and ceramics
• Home decorations and art pieces
• Festival and gift products
• Clocks, watches and optical instruments
• Gardening and outdoor products
• Bathroom and sanitary equipment
• Building and decorative materials
• Glass artware and rattan or iron craftwork

This phase attracts importers, retail chain buyers, and store owners who want to enrich their collections with quality Chinese-made goods. It is also where designers and retailers discover upcoming trends in home design and decoration.

Phase 3 – Textiles, Fashion, Health and Lifestyle

The third phase presents the softer side of Chinese manufacturing. It covers clothing, textiles, shoes, personal care, and products for leisure and daily comfort. It also includes stationery, toys, and health-related items. This is the phase where creativity and lifestyle meet production.

• Men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel
• Sportswear and underwear
• Footwear and leather goods
• Home textiles and fabrics
• Bags, luggage and travel accessories
• Toys, baby and maternity products
• Health and medical equipment
• Beauty and personal care products
• Office supplies, stationery and school materials
• Recreation and leisure products
• Pet products and agricultural goods

This phase is ideal for those in the fashion, wellness, and retail industries. It highlights the connection between creativity, comfort, and consumer demand. Exhibitors range from textile mills and fashion brands to baby product manufacturers and medical suppliers.

Why the Division into Phases Matters

Each phase serves a specific set of industries. Buyers planning their visit focus on the phases that match their business interests. This structure allows better organization and reduces the crowd for each category. For example, a company sourcing industrial machines can concentrate only on Phase 1, while a home decoration retailer will find everything in Phase 2. Fashion brands and health product importers usually visit Phase 3. The organization helps both exhibitors and buyers have a clear and productive experience.

Who Attends the Canton Fair

The fair welcomes international buyers, wholesalers, distributors, and sourcing agents from over two hundred countries. Exhibitors include Chinese factories, exporters, trading companies, and also some foreign joint ventures. The fair has become a meeting point for global business where ideas, products, and partnerships are born. Many contracts signed at the Canton Fair lead to long-term cooperation between companies from different parts of the world.

Visitor Experience and Preparation

Visiting the Canton Fair requires preparation. The exhibition area is vast and divided into Areas A, B, and C of the Canton Fair Complex. It is best to wear comfortable shoes and plan your route using the official hall map. Bringing product specifications, technical drawings, and photos can help you communicate clearly with suppliers. The fair supports multiple languages and has translation services available. Most exhibitors can communicate in English, and many also offer online showrooms through the official digital platform of the fair.

• Pre-register online to save time at entry
• Bring business cards and digital copies of your company profile
• Plan meetings in advance using the exhibitor list by category
• Use the Guangzhou Metro Line 8 to reach Pazhou Station or Xingangdong Station
• Keep your Buyer Badge for future sessions since it remains valid

The Global Importance of the Canton Fair

The Canton Fair has become a symbol of China’s international trade and manufacturing strength. Over its long history it has witnessed the transformation of China from a regional producer to a global industrial power. Every year billions of dollars in trade deals are concluded during and after the event. It plays a vital role in connecting small and large companies to new markets and innovations. The fair not only supports exports but also introduces new technologies and materials that influence production around the world.

Summary

The Canton Fair in Guangzhou is a gateway to the world of Chinese manufacturing. It runs twice a year in three detailed phases that cover almost every industry: from industrial technology and machinery, through home goods and furniture, to textiles, fashion, health and lifestyle products. Understanding the phase schedule allows visitors to make the most of their time and focus on the suppliers that match their business. Whether you are a global buyer, designer, importer, or entrepreneur, the Canton Fair is the best place to experience the scale, innovation, and variety of products made in China today.