It is China’s most important trade show which is held twice a year in Guangzhou.
It started in 1957 to boost China’s international trade and is now the country’s biggest B2B fair.
It happens twice every year in spring and autumn. The Autumn 2025 event will run from October 15th to November 4th. This entire event is broken up into three separate phases with each phase focusing on different types of products.
This event attracts thousands of sellers and buyers globally. It’s expected that the Autumn 2025 event will host over 25,000 sellers and 200,000 buyers from about 200 countries. It is held at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou. This place is one of the largest exhibition centers in the world.
The first phase features large items like electronics and machinery. The second one covers smaller items like household products. And the final phase is dedicated to clothing and textiles. The huge exhibition center has multiple entry points to handle the crowds.
Canton Fair Registration Process
International visitors must register early and get a Buyer Badge to visit the Canton Fair. And here’s how to do it:
- Go to the Canton Fair website and sign up as an Overseas Buyer. Then provide your personal and passport details.
- Download the official Invitation Letter once approved. You will need it to apply for your Chinese visa.
- Show your passport at the Pazhou Complex to get your official Buyer Badge. It serves as your entry pass for all future Fairs.
- Make sure to register online early to save money.
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Chinese Visa Requirements and Application
Indian citizens will need a Chinese Business (M) visa to attend the Canton Fair. It’s because this visit is for trade and sourcing purposes. And you must have the following items to apply:
- A valid Indian passport that has at least six months left before it expires with a minimum of two empty pages.
- Your recent passport-sized color photo with a white background.
- An official Invitation Letter from the Canton Fair organizers.
- A copy of your company’s business license and a signed letter on company letterhead explaining why you are traveling.
- Your travel details like proof of confirmed flights and hotel bookings.
- Officials may ask for your recent bank statements. But an invitation letter is usually all you need.
You must submit your application at a Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) or a Chinese Consulate in India.
Fill out your online visa form on the official CVASC website. Then bring your passport and documents to the center when told. Choose the “M” (Business) visa category. Mention your purpose of visiting the fair on the form.
Good News: Indian applicants no longer need an appointment to submit their application at the CVASC now.
Newcomers only need an official invitation letter. The standard processing time is about four working days. So make sure to apply early before your trip.
The approved M visa is a sticker in your passport. A single-entry visa works for most trips. But ask for a multiple-entry visa if you plan to visit the Fair twice or travel extensively in China.
Travel Tips for Indian Applicants
- Pack light clothing and a jacket for the Autumn Fair. And bring a raincoat or umbrella for possible rain for the Spring Fair.
- Book your hotel early in the Haizhu or Tianhe areas. And check if your hotel provides a free shuttle bus to the venue.
- You should bring a universal travel adapter and a portable power bank since China uses 220V power with different plug types.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring a wheeled bag for samples. Pack any personal medications too.
- You can easily reach there by taking Metro Line 8 or by using free shuttle services offered by hotels and the Baiyun Airport..
- Always carry your address printed in Chinese or use the Didi app with a Chinese destination. It’s because there are very few drivers who can speak English.
- Use Baidu Maps and a translation app for travel here. Remember that Google Maps won’t work here.
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Exploring Guangzhou Beyond Business
Be sure to experience its culture in your free time. This city is famous for Cantonese food. So make sure to try dim sum and fresh seafood. Visitors also enjoy walking around Shamian Island which is a beautiful area known for its shaded streets and historic sites. Consider a Pearl River cruise as a night activity.
A translation app or a few basic Mandarin words will help you in restaurants or taxis since most people don’t speak English outside the Fair. Register online early and prepare smart luggage so you can focus on sourcing and networking there.
Start the process three months early to prepare your paperwork. Always check the official Canton Fair website for the latest news. Your trip will be smooth and successful with good planning.
Conclusion
Canton Fair is a great way for Indian businesses to connect with a global audience and discover new opportunities in international trade.
Getting a Chinese visa might seem hard at first. But it’s actually quite simple with proper planning. Just get your official invitation letter and book your travel near the complex. Consider choosing DU Digital Global for expert guidance.
Plan and respect local culture to get the most value from your visit. Guangzhou’s rich culture and easy travel make it a valuable business location beyond the fair.
Canton Fair is much more than just buying products. It’s a smart way to build global business relationships and find new ideas. Indian participants can bring back great business deals and key relationships for lasting growth with good planning.
FAQs
Q1. What visa do I need to attend the Canton Fair?
You should apply for a China Business (M) visa using the official Canton Fair invitation letter to support your application.
Q2. Is the Canton Fair invitation letter valid for visa purposes?
Yes. The official Canton Fair invitation is accepted as a valid document for your business (M) visa.
Q3. Can I register for the Canton Fair online?
Yes. You can register online via Canton Fair official platform to apply for your invitation letter and buyer badge.
Q4. What are the Canton Fair 2025 dates?
The Spring Session ran from April 15 to 19, 23 to 27, and May 1 to 5. And the Autumn Session will run from October 15 to 19, 23 to 27, and October 31 to November 4.
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About the Author
Gagandeep Singh Bhatia
Gagandeep Bhatia, Senior Vice President – Sales at DU Digital Global Ltd., has over two decades of leadership experience across the consumer durables, telecom, and travel sectors. He has worked with leading organizations such as Voltas, Vodafone, GoAir, and Yatra Online, specializing in sales, distribution, and channel management.
