Canton Fair began in the spring of 1957. It is held twice a year in Spring and Autumn, two phases a session, two sessions a year; 6 days each phase, 2 phases each session:
Phase 1: April 15th-20th
Phase 2: April 25th-30th (Spring Fair)
Phase 1: Oct. 15th-20th
Phase 2: Oct. 25th-30th (Autumn Fair)
Suppliers and buyers establish business relationships at the fair. Canton Fair attracts delegations and buyers from the whole country and all over the world. Buyers will meet verified suppliers from across China, face-to-face.
Shows typically last for seven hours a day; six days at a show means you've only got 42 hours to built up business relationships with suppliers. Here are some tips to get-to-know and meet suppliers:
- Arrange a translator
- Book hotel ahead of time
- Bring enough business cards
- Take their business cards and catalogs
- Take samples
- Make sure that you take notes on the spot
- Talk with other buyers at the show
- Buy off-the-shelf products
- Visit as many suppliers as possible
After the show, it's time to follow up on your business cards and catalogs to decide which suppliers you'll be working with on your purchasing projects.
Good luck!
