China Import and Export Fair, or more commonly known as Canton Fair, has been around since 1957. Dubbed as the biggest trade fair in the world, it attracted more than 25,000 exhibitors for its latest edition. And its ginormous halls showcase a massive variety of products from household items and electronics, to tractors and ceramics.
After many years of thinking of going, I finally took the plunge — applied for a pass, booked my air ticket and accommodation in Guangzhou and walked the grounds.
The fair is spread over three weeks in three phases. Unless you’re a Walmart with interest in all products OR can afford the time, it’s important to do some homework and zoom in on the prodct categories that matter most. If your interest spreads over two phases, consider spending a couple of days at each (tail end of one phase and start of another) if you have only a week or so to spare.
In between, explore Guangzhou, do some sightseeing or check out a few of the thousand wholesale markets in the city.
Here are what I’ve learnt from my inaugural Canton Fair trip — its 134th edition:
- Catch the shuttle. Many hotels provide free shuttle to the venue. What’s best it that the bus stops in the compound, nearer than other forms of transportation. Our hotel provides refreshment for Canton Fair participants upon our return.
- Know what you want. Canton Fair is massive and if you are not focused, you may be distracted by the many booths and offerings. Get a floor plan. Find out where your targeted product categories are located and head there first. You can explore other halls if you have time to spare.
- Dress comfortably. While it was Autumn, the weather was hot. Don’t overdress with jackets unless you’re comfortable with the heat. A long-sleeve shirt or smart polo-T is good enough for guys. Most importantly, put on a pair of good walking shoes. It’s easy to clock up at least 10,000 steps in a couple of hours.
- Ask questions. Many booths are filled with staff who are eager to talk to visitors. If their products interest you, talk to them. Ask questions on the products, specifications, production, MOQ, and price. Point to note is not to take photos without permission.
- Take a break. There are food and beverage outlets, including the biggest McDonald’s with the most staff I’ve ever seen. Give your feet some rest and take a break at one of these. You’ll feel much better after a few minutes of rest.
- Bring cash. This is ironic as China is big on being cashless. When we arrived on the last day of Phase 1, vendors were offering discounts on their products as they do not want to bring them back to their factories or shops. As Canton Fair is a business-to-business event, exhibitors are technically not allowed to sell their products. This means that they do not have QR codes for payment via WeChat Pay or Alipay. So, cash is king! You’d be glad you brought some.
Our first trip to the fair has left a lasting impression. The range of products, friendliness of the exhibitors, and overall experience in Guangzhou are just some of the reasons we’ll be back for the next edition.
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