Markets · Guangzhou
How to Source Products at the Canton Fair: A Practical Guide
Learn how to effectively source and evaluate suppliers at the Canton Fair, including registration, negotiation, and factory visits. Get started now.
· 6 min read
Introduction
Attending the Canton Fair in Guangzhou for the first time can be overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the process of sourcing products, evaluating suppliers, and ensuring a successful trip. Follow these steps to make the most of your visit.
Registering for the Canton Fair
To attend the Canton Fair, you need to register as a buyer. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official Canton Fair website.
- Click on the 'Buyer' tab and select 'Pre-Registration.'
- Fill in the required information, including your company details and personal information.
- Upload the necessary documents, such as your business card and company registration certificate.
- Submit your application and wait for approval. You will receive a confirmation email with your badge number.
Once approved, you can download your e-badge or have it mailed to you. For more detailed instructions, see the official Canton Fair buyer registration system.
Getting an Invitation Letter and Visa
If you are applying for a visa, you will need an invitation letter from the Canton Fair. Here’s how to get one:
- After completing your pre-registration, log into your account on the Canton Fair website.
- Navigate to the 'My Canton Fair' section and select 'Invitation Letter.'
- Follow the prompts to generate and download your invitation letter.
- Use this letter to apply for your visa at the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. For more information, see our guide on getting a Canton Fair invitation letter and visa.
Navigating the Canton Fair
The Canton Fair is divided into three phases, each focusing on different product categories. The fair takes place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex, located at 380 Yuejiang Zhong Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou. To find the exact location, search 中国进出口商品交易会展馆 in AMap (available for download from Apple App Store).
Phase 1: April 15-19, 2026 - Electronics, Machinery, Building Materials, Vehicles, Lighting, Hardware & Tools, Chemicals, Energy, etc.
Phase 2: April 23-27, 2026 - Consumer Goods, Gifts, Home Decor, Ceramics, Glass, Toys, Stationery, Sports & Leisure, etc.
Phase 3: May 1-5, 2026 - Textiles, Garments, Shoes, Office Supplies, Food, Medical & Health, etc.
Plan your visit based on the products you are interested in. For more details, see our guide on which phase to attend.
Evaluating Suppliers
When evaluating suppliers, it's crucial to verify their legitimacy and capabilities. Here’s how to do it:
- Check the company’s legal status using QualityInspection.org’s guide. Ensure they are a legitimate mainland entity and not just a Hong Kong shell company.
- Verify if the supplier is a genuine manufacturer by following the steps outlined in QualityInspection.org’s guide. Look for signs of a real factory, such as production lines, raw materials, and finished goods.
- Ask for references and contact previous clients to confirm the supplier’s reliability.
- Conduct a background check using resources like China Checkup.
Negotiating with Suppliers
Effective negotiation is key to securing a good deal. Here are some tips:
- Prepare a list of questions to ask, such as minimum order quantities, payment terms, lead times, and quality control processes.
- Be clear about your requirements and expectations. Provide detailed specifications and samples if possible.
- Discuss pricing and negotiate based on volume and long-term cooperation. Be prepared to compromise but also know your limits.
- Request a sample before placing a large order. Inspect the sample thoroughly and provide feedback for any necessary adjustments.
For more detailed negotiation strategies, see our guide on Canton Fair costs and negotiations.
Factory Visits and Verification
Visiting the factory is a critical step in verifying the supplier’s capabilities. Here’s how to conduct a thorough visit:
- Download the Sofeast factory visit checklist to ensure you cover all important aspects.
- Ask the supplier to arrange a factory tour. Ensure the factory is the one you are dealing with and not a third-party facility.
- During the visit, pay attention to the production lines, quality control processes, and working conditions. Use the checklist to guide your inspection.
- Ask the 27 key questions provided by Sofeast’s guide to gain deeper insights into the supplier’s operations.
Following Up and Finalizing the Deal
After the fair, follow up with potential suppliers to finalize the deal. Here’s what to do:
- Send a thank-you email to the suppliers you met, summarizing the discussions and next steps.
- Confirm the details of the order, including quantity, price, payment terms, and delivery schedule.
- Request a formal quotation and purchase order. Review the documents carefully before signing.
- Set up a payment method. Consider using Alipay, which you can set up by downloading the app from Alipay’s official website. Add your Visa or Mastercard and upload your passport for verification. Payments under ¥200 carry no fee; above that expect around 3%.
For more information on payment methods, see our guide on Canton Fair payment options.
What it looks like
Frequently asked
How do I get an invitation letter for the Canton Fair?
After completing your pre-registration on the Canton Fair website, log into your account, navigate to 'My Canton Fair,' and select 'Invitation Letter.' Follow the prompts to generate and download your letter.
What should I do to verify a Chinese company's legitimacy?
Use QualityInspection.org’s guide to check the company’s legal status and ensure they are a legitimate mainland entity. Conduct a background check using resources like China Checkup.
How can I negotiate better prices at the Canton Fair?
Prepare a list of questions, be clear about your requirements, discuss pricing based on volume and long-term cooperation, and request a sample before placing a large order.
What should I look for during a factory visit?
Download the Sofeast factory visit checklist and use it to inspect the production lines, quality control processes, and working conditions. Ask the 27 key questions provided by Sofeast’s guide.
How do I set up Alipay for payments in China?
Download the Alipay app from the official website, add your Visa or Mastercard, and upload your passport for verification. Payments under ¥200 carry no fee; above that expect around 3%.
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About this guide
Written and maintained by the China Unboxed team from Shenzhen. We keep guides current and general on purpose — always verify prices and policies against official sources before booking.
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