In 2025, the Canton Fair will once again open its doors to thousands of international visitors, making it a must-attend event for businesses seeking to expand their sourcing networks or discover the latest innovations. In this article, however, we’ll zoom in on one of the most important aspects - the dates and phases of the 138th Canton Fair (Autumn 2025). 

To attend the Canton Fair 2025 this October-November, you can apply for your China Business Visa on Atlys.

What is the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair, officially called the China Import and Export Fair, is the largest trade exhibition in China and one of the most influential in the world. Held twice a year in Guangzhou, it has become the meeting ground for global buyers, manufacturers, and suppliers across almost every industry imaginable. For anyone involved in importing goods from China, the fair isn’t just another event on the calendar; it’s a gateway to new opportunities, stronger supplier relationships, and insights into market trends.

Canton Fair: Autumn 2025 Dates

One of the first questions every importer asks is: When is the right time to attend the Canton Fair? Since the fair is divided into different phases, understanding the schedule is essential to make your trip productive.

The Canton Fair is held twice a year (in spring and autumn)at the sprawling Pazhou Complex in Guangzhou. Each session attracts thousands of exhibitors and international buyers. For 2025, the Autumn Edition (138th Canton Fair) will run from October 15 to November 4, 2025.

Here is the official schedule for the Canton Fair Autumn 2025:

• Phase 1: October 15–19, 2025 (Wednesday to Sunday)
  Focus on electronics, household electrical appliances, building materials, industrial equipment, vehicles, hardware, and related industries.
  

• Phase 2: October 23–27, 2025 (Thursday to Monday)
  Dedicated to consumer goods, gifts, home décor, furniture, and building materials—ideal for businesses sourcing lifestyle, design, and everyday use products.
   

• Phase 3: October 31–November 4, 2025 (Friday to Tuesday)
  Highlights textiles, clothing, footwear, office supplies, bags, food, health products, toys, and recreational goods.

Canton Fair: Autumn 2025 Phases

To manage its enormous scale, the event is divided into three phases, each lasting five days and focusing on specific product categories. This structure allows businesses to connect directly with suppliers relevant to their industry rather than navigating all sectors at once. Planning ahead and selecting the right phase for your sourcing needs is crucial to saving time, building stronger connections, and maximising the value of your visit.

Phase 1: October 15–19, 2025

This phase is focused on technology, machinery, and industrial goods. It’s the best stage for businesses sourcing electronics, heavy equipment, and smart technologies.

Canton fair key product categories include:

• Household electrical appliances

• Consumer electronics & IT products

• Electrical and electronic equipment

• Lighting solutions

• New energy and renewable technologies

• Chemical products & new materials

• Hardware and tools

• Machinery for construction, agriculture, and manufacturing

• Industrial automation & intelligent manufacturing

• Power and electrical systems

• Vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, spare parts, and smart mobility solutions

Phase 2: October 23–27, 2025

Phase 2 highlights home goods, furniture, and lifestyle products. Importers in retail, décor, and gifting industries will find this stage particularly useful.

Canton fair key product categories include:

• Furniture & home furnishings

• Building and decoration materials

• Sanitary and bathroom products

• Kitchenware & tableware

• Household items & daily-use ceramics

• Clocks, watches, and optical instruments

• Gifts, premiums, and festive products

• Home décor & artistic ceramics

• Glassware, gardening, rattan, and woven products

• Outdoor decorations, stone crafts & spa facilities

Phase 3: October 31–November 4, 2025

The final phase revolves around fashion, textiles, personal care, and consumer goods. It’s ideal for importers dealing in apparel, lifestyle, and health-related products.

Canton fair key product categories include:

• Personal care appliances & bathroom products

• Health products, medicines & medical devices

• Pet supplies, maternity, and baby products

• Toys, children’s wear, and accessories

• Men’s and women’s clothing, sportswear, underwear & leather goods

• Footwear and fashion accessories

• Home textiles, fabrics, carpets & raw materials

• Office supplies, bags, and suitcases

• Sports gear & leisure products

• Food & agricultural products supporting rural revitalisation

How to Complete Canton Fair Registration?

To attend the Canton Fair, every overseas buyer must register and obtain a Buyer Badge, which acts as your admission pass to the exhibition halls. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the process smooth:

1. Pre-Register Online

   • Head to the official Canton Fair website and register as an overseas buyer.

   • Please fill in your details, including company name, business license, passport information, and contact details.

   • Pre-registration is strongly recommended, as it saves time on-site and sometimes waives the registration fee.
     
     

2. Invitation Letter for Visa

   • Once you register, you can apply for an official Invitation Letter, which is required for your China Business (M) Visa application.

   • This invitation can be downloaded online after it has been approved.
     
     

3. Collecting Your Buyer Badge

   • First-time visitors must collect their badge in person at the registration office located at the Canton Fair Complex.

   • Required documents include:

     • Original passport

     • A recent photo (passport-sized)

     • Pre-registration confirmation letter

   • On-site registration costs around 100–200 RMB, while pre-registration online is usually free.
     
     

4. Badge Validity

   • Once issued, the Buyer Badge is typically valid for multiple sessions, meaning you can reuse it if you attend future Canton Fairs.

Tip: Always carry multiple business cards, as they are often required during registration and essential for networking during the fair.

Where is the location of the Canton Fair?

The Canton Fair takes place at the China Import and Export Fair Complex, also known as the Pazhou Complex, in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province.

• Address: No. 380, Yuejiang Zhong Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, China

• Area: Covering 1.55 million square meters, it is the largest exhibition centre in Asia and among the largest in the world.
  

• How to Get There:

  • By Metro: Take Line 8 and get off at Pazhou Station or Xingangdong Station, both directly connected to the venue.

  • By Taxi: Guangzhou taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced, although traffic can be expected on fair days.

  • By Shuttle: Many partner hotels provide shuttle buses to and from the venue.

Tip: The complex is divided into different zones and exhibition halls, so downloading the Canton Fair app or map in advance will help you navigate more efficiently.

Whether you are a first-time visitor exploring sourcing options or a seasoned importer strengthening supplier relationships, the fair offers unparalleled access to manufacturers across every major industry. And while business may be your primary focus, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, history, and cuisine of Guangzhou; it’s an experience that complements the fair and makes your trip all the more memorable.