The 134th Canton Fair: An Indispensable Event for International Trade

Introduction of China Import and Export Fair

China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, was established in the spring of 1957. Co-hosted by the Ministry of Commerce of PRC and the People’s Government of Guangdong Province and organized by China Foreign Trade Centre, it is held every spring and autumn in Guangzhou, China.

The Canton Fair is a comprehensive international trading event with the longest history, the largest scale, the most complete exhibit variety, the largest buyer attendance, the most diverse buyer source country, the greatest business turnover and the best reputation in China, hailed as China’s No.1 Fair and the barometer of China’s foreign trade.

As the window, epitome and symbol of China’s opening up and an important platform for international trade cooperation, the Canton Fair has withstood various challenges and never been interrupted since its inception. It has been successfully held for 133 sessions and established trade relations with more than 229 countries and regions around the world.

The accumulated export volume has amounted to about USD 1.5 trillion and the total number of overseas buyers attending the Canton Fair onsite and online has reached 10 million. The Fair has effectively promoted trade connections and friendly exchanges between China and the world.

President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the 130^th Canton Fair and noted that it made significant contribution to facilitating international trade, internal-external exchanges, and economic development over the past 65 years. The letter endowed the Canton Fair with a new historic mission, pointing a way for the Fair in the new journey of the new era.

Premier Li Keqiang attended the Opening Ceremony of the 130^th Canton Fair and made a keynote speech. After that, he inspected exhibition halls and said that he hoped the Fair could scale new heights in the future, and make new and bigger contribution to China’s reform and opening up, mutually beneficial cooperation and sustainable development.

In the future, under the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, the Canton Fair will implement the spirit of the 20^th National Congress of the CPC and President Xi’s congratulatory letter, follow through the decisions of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, as well as the requirements of the Ministry of Commerce and Guangdong Province.

All-round efforts will be made to innovate mechanism, create more business models and expand the Fair’s role to become a vital platform for China’s opening-up on all fronts, the high-quality development of global trade and the dual circulation of domestic and overseas markets, so as to better serve national strategies, high-quality opening up, the innovative development of foreign trade, and the building of a new development paradigm.

Why Should You Care About the 134th Canton Fair?

The 134th Canton Fair is not just any trade event; it holds significant importance for businesses and individuals alike, regardless of their involvement in the field of foreign trade. Here’s why you should pay attention to this exceptional fair:

1. Global Business Opportunities:
   The Canton Fair serves as a global platform where businesses from around the world converge to showcase their products and explore new trade opportunities. Whether you’re an established company looking to expand your market or a budding entrepreneur seeking innovative products to introduce, this fair offers a plethora of opportunities to forge valuable connections and partnerships.
2. Unveiling Cutting-Edge Innovations:
   The 134th Canton Fair is a hub for innovation, attracting industry leaders and trendsetters. It provides a unique opportunity to witness and experience firsthand the latest technological advancements, novel product designs, and groundbreaking solutions. By keeping an eye on the innovations showcased at the fair, you can stay ahead of the curve and gain a competitive edge in your industry.
3. Insights into Global Market Trends:
   Attending the Canton Fair allows you to gain valuable insights into current market trends and consumer preferences on a global scale. By observing the products, features, and concepts that resonate with buyers, you can identify emerging trends and adapt your business strategies accordingly. This knowledge can guide you in making informed decisions and staying relevant in an ever-evolving marketplace.
4. Networking and Relationship Building:
   The fair attracts a diverse array of industry professionals, including buyers, suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors from different countries. It presents an ideal environment for networking and building relationships with potential business partners. By engaging in meaningful conversations and establishing connections, you can broaden your professional network and open doors to new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
5. Market Expansion and Export Opportunities:
   For businesses seeking to expand their reach beyond domestic markets, the Canton Fair is a gateway to international trade. With thousands of exhibitors and buyers from various countries, the fair offers a platform to showcase your products and services to a global audience. It provides an avenue to explore export opportunities, establish distribution channels, and tap into new markets, ultimately driving business growth and profitability.

In conclusion, the 134th Canton Fair is a significant event that transcends the boundaries of foreign trade. It offers a myriad of advantages, from access to global business opportunities and unveiling cutting-edge innovations to gaining insights into market trends and fostering valuable relationships. Regardless of your industry or business scale, paying attention to this fair can prove instrumental in staying competitive, expanding your market reach, and fueling your growth ambitions.

When and Where is the 134th Canton Fair Taking Place?

The 134th Canton Fair is scheduled to take place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou, China. The fair is held twice a year, in spring and autumn, with the spring session typically occurring in April and the autumn session in October.

Dates for the 134th Canton Fair:

• Autumn Session: October 15th to November 4th, 2023.

The Canton Fair holds great significance due to its long-standing history and reputation as one of the world’s premier trade events. Since its inception in 1957, the fair has played a pivotal role in facilitating international trade, promoting economic cooperation, and driving global business growth.

Over the years, the Canton Fair has evolved into a comprehensive exhibition that covers a wide range of industries, including electronics, home appliances, textiles, machinery, and much more. The fair attracts thousands of exhibitors and buyers from around the world, making it a vibrant and diverse marketplace.

Being the oldest and largest trade fair in China, the Canton Fair has established itself as a trusted platform for business negotiations, product showcases, and industry exchanges. Its reputation for quality, professionalism, and innovation draws participants from both developed and emerging markets, making it an ideal destination for anyone involved in international trade.

If you’re looking to explore new business opportunities, source innovative products, or simply gain insights into global market trends, marking your calendar and planning a visit to the 134th Canton Fair is highly encouraged. Attending the fair can provide you with unparalleled networking opportunities, access to cutting-edge innovations, and a firsthand experience of the dynamism and vibrancy of the global business landscape.

So, save the dates, plan your trip, and get ready to immerse yourself in the unmatched energy and excitement of the 134th Canton Fair. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!

How do I attend the Canton Fair?

Registration and verification for overseas buyers are currently open. To register or undergo the verification process, kindly visit https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US/register/index and select the “Overseas Buyer” option.

To attend the Canton Fair, it is necessary to obtain a Chinese visa and complete the registration for a buyer badge. The fair’s invitation may assist you in obtaining both the visa and registration.

Components required for attendance:

1. Invitation
2. Visa
3. Registration

Invitation

The invitation provides overseas buyers with the following opportunities:

1. Visa Application: With the Canton Fair invitation, you may be able to obtain a visa for China. However, the approval ultimately depends on the Chinese Embassy in your country.
2. Free Entry Badge: The invitation grants you access to the fair through the Registration Express Channel, allowing you to obtain a free entry badge.

Overseas buyers can apply for an invitation to the Canton Fair using the following methods:

1. BEST (Buyer E-Service Tool): Utilize the BEST platform to apply for the invitation.
2. Canton Fair Call Centre, China Foreign Trade Centre: Contact the Canton Fair Call Centre at the China Foreign Trade Centre to request the invitation.
3. Economic & Commercial Counsellor’s Office of the Embassy (The Economic & Commercial Section of the Consulate General) of P.R. China in your region: Get in touch with the relevant office or section of the Chinese embassy or consulate in your region to inquire about the invitation process.
4. Overseas Cooperative Organizations of China Foreign Trade Centre: Reach out to overseas cooperative organizations associated with the China Foreign Trade Centre to apply for the invitation.
5. Canton Fair Hong Kong Representative Office – (852)28771318: Contact the Canton Fair Hong Kong Representative Office directly at the provided phone number to request the invitation.
6. Chinese Foreign Trade Corporations (Enterprises) with whom you are business-related: Establish communication with the Chinese foreign trade corporations or enterprises that you have business connections with to explore the invitation process.

Visa

Do I need a Chinese visa to visit the Canton Fair?

If your country does not have a visa-free policy with China, you will need to apply for a Chinese visa before your visit. There are various types of visas available, and the most common one for business trips is the “M” visa.

Here are the options for obtaining a Chinese visa:

1. Embassy or Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in your country (Overseas Missions): Contact the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country to apply for the visa.
2. Local travel agency or visa agency: You can seek assistance from a local travel agency or visa agency to facilitate the visa application process.
3. Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in Hong Kong: If applicable, you can reach out to the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in Hong Kong for visa application. Their website is http://www.fmcoprc.gov.hk/eng/fwxx/wgrqz/. You can also contact them via telephone at 852-34132300 or 852-34132424 or through email at fmcovisa_hk@mfa.gov.cn.
4. 72/144-hour Transit Visa Exemption Policy: Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for the 72/144-hour Transit Visa Exemption Policy. You can find more information about this policy through the provided link.

Important Notes:

• The official Canton Fair invitation typically includes the buyer’s name, nationality, and company name. However, invitations from Chinese factories or foreign trade corporations (enterprises) may be more effective for Chinese visa applications. Please be aware that the Canton Fair invitation can assist in obtaining a Chinese visa, but the final decision lies with the Chinese Embassy in your country.
• Buyers who need to travel from mainland China to Hong Kong or Macau and then return to Guangzhou must apply for a multi-entry visa.
• If you have already traveled to China without a Chinese visa, you may consider flying to Hong Kong as an alternative.

How can I find exhibitors and products for the different phases of the Canton Fair?

Newest floor plan: You can find the latest floor plan at this link: https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US/customPages/tradeAssistant#/hallMap/first

To access information about exhibitors and products at the Canton Fair, please visit the official website’s homepage. In the “Exhibitors + Products” section, you can search by exhibitor or exhibit. Alternatively, you can use keywords or browse categories by visiting this link: https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US/customPages/exhibition

Canton Fair attendees should note that the fair is divided into three phases, each showcasing different product lists:

• Phase 1
• Phase 2
• Phase 3

Where can I locate a translator while attending the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair provides visitors with a translation service, available at the International Business Center within the fairground. Exhibitors can also hire translators and interpreters proficient in various languages, such as English, Spanish, Italian, and more.

Alternatively, at the entrance of the Canton Fair, you can find professional translators holding banners. Many of them specialize in English interpretation.

Insights into Global Market Trends at the 134th Canton Fair

The 134th Canton Fair offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into global market trends. As one of the world’s largest trade events, the fair attracts participants from a wide range of industries and countries, making it an ideal platform to observe and analyze the latest market dynamics. Here’s why the fair can provide you with valuable insights into global market trends:

1. Diverse Range of Industries:
   The Canton Fair encompasses a vast array of industries, ranging from consumer goods and electronics to machinery and textiles. By exploring the different exhibition halls and pavilions, you can observe the latest trends and innovations across various sectors. This comprehensive coverage allows you to gather insights into the direction in which different industries are moving and identify potential growth areas.
2. Global Representation:
   The fair attracts exhibitors and buyers from all corners of the globe. This diverse representation provides a unique opportunity to understand market trends from a global perspective. By interacting with participants from different countries and cultures, you can gain insights into regional preferences, consumer behavior, and market demands. These insights can help you tailor your products or services to specific markets and stay ahead of the competition.
3. New Product Launches:
   Many companies choose the Canton Fair as a platform to launch their latest products and innovations. By attending product launches and demonstrations, you can witness firsthand the newest developments in the market. This exposure allows you to stay updated on emerging technologies, product designs, and features that are shaping consumer preferences. These insights can inspire new ideas for your own business or help you identify potential partnerships or collaborations.
4. Networking and Knowledge Sharing:
   The Canton Fair brings together industry professionals, experts, and thought leaders from around the world. Engaging in conversations and networking with these individuals can provide valuable insights into market trends. By exchanging ideas, discussing challenges, and sharing experiences, you can gain a deeper understanding of the current market landscape and potential future developments. Networking opportunities at the fair can also lead to collaborations or partnerships that enhance your market intelligence.
5. Access to Market Reports and Research:
   The Canton Fair often includes dedicated sections or seminars where market reports and research findings are presented. These resources offer in-depth analysis of market trends, consumer behavior, and emerging opportunities. By attending these sessions or accessing the available resources, you can gather data-driven insights and strategic information to inform your business decisions.

Attending the 134th Canton Fair can provide you with invaluable insights into global market trends. By immersing yourself in the diverse range of industries, engaging in networking opportunities, and leveraging available resources, you can stay abreast of the latest developments, identify emerging trends, and position your business for success in the ever-evolving global marketplace.