The Ultimate Guide to Canton Fair 2025: Dates, Registration & Survival Tips

The China Import and Export Fair, universally known as the Canton Fair, is the pinnacle of global trade events. As we approach the 137th session in the Spring of 2025, preparation is key. Whether you are a veteran buyer or a first-time attendee, navigating the massive Pazhou Complex in Guangzhou requires strategy.

This comprehensive guide covers the confirmed dates for all three phases, step-by-step registration instructions, and essential survival tips—including critical advice on local transportation to keep you safe and on budget.

Canton Fair 2025 Spring Session Dates & Exhibits

The 137th Canton Fair (Spring 2025) will follow the traditional three-phase format. Each phase focuses on specific industries, so booking your travel for the wrong dates can be a costly mistake.

Phase 1: April 15 – 19, 2025

Phase 1 is the hub for heavy industry and high-tech products. If you are sourcing electronics or machinery, this is your week.

• Electronics & Home Appliances: Consumer electronics, electrical products, and computer hardware.
• Lighting Equipment: Lighting systems, LEDs, and solar lighting.
• Vehicles & Spare Parts: Bicycles, motorcycles, vehicle spare parts, and new energy vehicles.
• Machinery: Power machinery, large mechanical equipment, and construction machinery.
• Hardware & Tools: Tools, building hardware, and bathroom equipment.
• Building Materials: General building materials, chemical products, and international pavilion stands.

Phase 2: April 23 – 27, 2025

Phase 2 shifts focus to labor-intensive consumer goods, gifts, and home decorations. This phase is incredibly popular for Amazon sellers and dropshippers.

• Consumer Goods: Kitchenware, daily ceramics, household items, and personal care products.
• Gifts: Toys, clocks, watches, festival products, and premium gifts.
• Home Decorations: Glass art ware, weaving, rattan and iron arts, gardening products, and furniture.

Phase 3: May 1 – 5, 2025

The final phase covers textiles, health, and office supplies. It is generally the least crowded phase but vital for fashion and medical buyers.

• Textiles & Garments: Men's and women's clothing, sportswear, underwear, furs, and fashion accessories.
• Shoes: All types of footwear.
• Office Supplies & Luggage: Office stationery, cases, and bags.
• Medicines & Health Products: Medical devices, health products, and dressings.
• Food: International delicacies and local Chinese food products.

Registration: Securing Your Buyer Badge

Entry to the Canton Fair requires a "Buyer Badge" (IC Card). This badge is valid for multiple sessions over several years, so if you have an old one, bring it! If you are new, follow these steps to avoid long queues and fees.

1. Pre-register Online (BEST Tool)

The "Buyer E-Service Tool" (BEST) on the official Canton Fair website is the most efficient way to register. Pre-registration is typically free if completed before the deadline (usually late March for the Spring session).

Once approved, you will receive a Return Receipt. Print this out or save it on your phone.

2. Getting the Physical Badge

You can pick up your badge at:

• Overseas Buyers' Registration Offices: Located at the fair complex (Area A, B, and C).
• Designated Hotels: Over 30 hotels in Guangzhou offer badge pickup services. This is highly recommended to avoid the massive morning crowds at the complex.

Accommodation: Where to Stay?

Choosing between staying near the fair (Haizhu District) or in the city center (Tianhe/Yuexiu District) is the biggest logistical decision you will make.

Option A: Haizhu District (Near the Fair)

Pros: Short commute; you can often walk or take a quick shuttle to the complex.
Cons: Extremely expensive during fair dates; limited nightlife and dining options compared to downtown.

Option B: Tianhe District (City Center)

Pros: Vibrant atmosphere, thousands of restaurants, shopping malls, and better value for money hotels.
Cons: You must commute via Metro or Taxi (30-45 minutes).

Transportation: Getting Around Guangzhou

Guangzhou has a world-class public transport system, but the sheer volume of visitors during the Canton Fair can make travel challenging.

The Metro

The Guangzhou Metro is the most reliable way to reach the fair. The Canton Fair Complex is located on Line 8.

• Area A: Exit at Xingangdong Station (Exit A).
• Area B & C: Exit at Pazhou Station (Exit A or B).

Taxis and Ride-Hailing

Taxis are convenient, but they come with risks during the fair season. Demand is high, and finding a taxi at the complex in the afternoon is difficult (expect 1-hour queues).

Furthermore, scams are unfortunately common targeting international visitors. Some drivers may refuse to use the meter ("by meter" is mandatory by law) or take longer routes to inflate the fare.

We strongly recommend using our free Guangzhou Taxi Fare Calculator linked above. By inputting your hotel and destination, you can get a precise estimate of the fair price (including distance and time). Show this estimate to the driver if they try to overcharge you.

Conclusion

The Canton Fair 2025 is an unparalleled opportunity to grow your business and find new suppliers. By preparing your registration early, booking your hotel in advance, and staying smart about your transportation choices, you can focus on what matters most: closing deals.

See you in Guangzhou!