Canton Fair Brief Introduction
Inaugurated in the spring of 1957, the China Import and Export Fair (CIEF), commonly known as the Canton Fair, is China's largest trade fair and now has spread its name all around the world. It is held twice a year in spring and autumn in China Import and Export Fair Complex (Pazhou Complex), Guangzhou. The upcoming session in 2026, the 140th Canton Fair is scheduled to put on its fantasy in Spring from Oct.15-Nov.4.
Topping the best known China fairs, the Canton Fair is a comprehensive trade show with the longest history, the highest level, the largest scale, the most complete in exhibit variety, the broadest distribution of overseas buyers and the greatest business turnover in China.
The Canton Fair leans to export trade, though import business is also done here. Traditional way of negotiating against samples and internet trading service are both available at the Fair. In addition, various types of business activities such as economic and technical cooperations and exchanges, commodity inspection, insurance, transportation, advertising, consultation, etc. are also carried out in flexible ways.
Trading Delegations of the Fair include foreign trade companies, factories, scientific research institutions, foreign invested enterprises, all foreign-owned enterprises, private enterprises, etc.

Steps for Attending Canton Fair
1. Applying a Canton Fair Invitation (Paper Invitation or E-Invitation)
2. Applying Visa to China with the Invitation
3. Planning your Canton Fair trip (Booking hotels, etc.)
4. Getting registered (with the Invitation) and getting an IC card to the Fair
5. Attending Canton Fair
Canton Fair Fact Sheet
| Time of Initiation: | April, 1957 |
|---|---|
| Interval: | Two sessions a year |
| Upcoming Session: | The 140th Session of China Import and Export Fair (Autumn Canton Fair 2026) |
| Fair Dates: | Phase 1: October 15-19, 2026 Phase 2: October 23-27, 2026 Phase 3: October 31-November 4, 2026 |
| Duration: | 5 days each phase, with 3-day intervals in between |
| Venue: | China Import and Export Fair Complex (Pazhou Complex) |
| Location: | No.380 Yuejiangzhong Road, Guangzhou, China |
| Business Turnover: | 49.69 Billion USD (Year 2023) |
| Number of Overseas Buyers: (135th Session) | 246,000 Overseas buyers from 215 countries and regions (Onsite Exhibition) 408,000 Overseas buyers from 229 countries and regions (Online Exhibition) |
| Number of Exhibitors: | 28,000+ |
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