Canton Fair 2026 Registration Guide for Australian Buyers

If you're doing business with Chinese suppliers, the Canton Fair is like your annual pilgrimage. Keep reading to learn how to register and attend the Canton Fair, including the 2026 dates, location, and more! When planning your visit to Guangzhou, be sure to book your hotel in advance to snag the best rates!

All About the Canton Fair 2026: Dates & 3 Phases

Looking for reliable manufacturers for your business? The Canton Fair, also known as the China Import and Export Fair, is the world's oldest and one of the premier trade events. It’s held twice a year in Guangzhou, China, during the Spring (April/May) and Autumn (October/November).

2026 & 2027 Canton Fair: Official Dates

📅 Autumn Edition: October 15 - November 4, 2026 (next session, October 15 - November 4)

📅 Spring Edition: April 15 - May 5, 2027 (tentative)

The Spring 2026 edition (April 15 - May 5, 2026) has wrapped up—if you're currently dreaming up your next adventure, the Autumn 2026 edition is the one you'll want to book!

2026 & 2027 Canton Fair: Dates for All 3 Phases (Onsite)

Both the upcoming Autumn 2026 and Spring 2027 editions will feature the same exciting structure across all 3 offline phases.

2026 & 2027 Canton Fair: Online Dates

The 139th Canton Fair online session ran from March to September 2026 and has now concluded. The 140th Canton Fair online platform is active from 16 September 2026 to 15 March 2027, and the 141st is expected to run from approximately March to September 2027.

Note: The Spring 2027 dates follow the fair's customary schedule but are still subject to official confirmation—be sure to check cantonfair.org.cn before you book your flights or hotels.

Register for the Canton Fair 2026 as a first-time buyer

Source: cantonfair.net

The Canton Fair makes registration a breeze for attendees—the process is identical for both the Autumn 2026 and Spring 2027 sessions—and there’s no general registration fee. Just keep in mind that specific service charges do apply for physical entry badges and other select services.

If you're a first-time buyer, registering at the Canton Fair on-site will cost 100 RMB (about $20 AUD). But here's a pro tip: register online in advance to skip that fee! Plus, you'll receive an official invitation letter, which is essential for your business visa application to enter China for the fair.

1. Head over to the official Canton Fair website, navigate to the "Buyer" section at the top, and click "Register" to start your journey!
2. Select "International Buyer" and fill in your details, including your name, email, contact number, and company information.
3. Verify Your Account: Once you've registered, keep an eye on your inbox for a verification email. Just click the link inside to confirm your account and start your journey!
4. Apply for your Buyer Badge: After you're verified, just log in and click the "I don't have a buyer badge" option. Simply fill in the details and send off your application—you'll be ready to go in no time!
5. Grab Your Buyer Badge: Think of this badge as your all-access pass to the fair. It’s valid for multiple sessions and stays active for several years, so you're set for future adventures!

Heads up: If you're looking for the nitty-gritty details, feel free to peek at the official guidelines for the next steps!

Head over to the "Buyer" section at the top and click "Register" to get started!

Select Your International Buyer

add your details

Register for the Canton Fair 2026 as a regular buyer

Pick your perfect Buyer Badge

For our frequent travelers, the process is quick and effortless.

1. Sign In: Head over to the Canton Fair website and log in with your existing account to get started!
2. Update Your Details: Keep your account info current. Need a fresh invitation letter or a quick update to your existing one? You can easily handle that right here.
3. Use Your Badge: Once you've got your badge in hand, you're all set to explore the fair! Be sure to tuck it away safely—it's your golden ticket for future sessions, too.

If you happen to misplace your badge, don't worry—you can get a replacement for a fee of 200 RMB (about $40 AUD). Simply head back to the fair complex or one of the hotel registration offices and follow the same steps to get yourself sorted and back to exploring!

Canton Fair Registration: Costs & Requirements for 2026

While registration is usually free, keep in mind that there are some costs for physical entry badges and extra services. Here’s a quick look at what to expect:

1. Basic Registration (Free)

• Online Pre-Registration: A must for all adventurers joining us!
• There's no fee when you book through the official portal.
• Digital invitation provided for your visa application.

2. Costs for Physical Entry Badges (IC Cards)

Important notes:

• It's free if you're using an existing IC Card!
• If you happen to misplace your card, don't worry—a 200 RMB replacement fee applies.

Who Needs to Register for the Canton Fair?

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

If you're dreaming of experiencing the Canton Fair, you'll need to register first—but it's absolutely essential for:

• Buyers: Individuals or businesses eager to source products directly from Chinese suppliers.
• Exhibitors: Companies eager to spotlight their latest products at the fair.
• International Travelers: If you're a non-China resident planning a business trip, this is for you.
• Purchasing Agents: Chinese professionals working for foreign firms who attend on behalf of their clients.

Canton Fair Registration Deadlines for 2026

Phase 1-3 Registration Dates

The Canton Fair is split into three distinct phases, each with its own schedule. Here’s a look at the dates for the upcoming Autumn 2026 session and the Spring 2027 session that follows:

• Phase 1 (Electronics, Machinery, and more): October 15–19, 2026 / April 15–19, 2027 (tentative)
• Phase 2 (Home Goods, Gifts, and more): October 23–27, 2026 / April 23–27, 2027 (tentative)
• Phase 3 (Textiles, Toys, and more): October 31–November 4, 2026 / May 1–5, 2027 (tentative)

Be sure to register well ahead of each phase to avoid any hold-ups and make sure your official buyer badge arrives right on time!

What to Do If You Register Late

Missed the early bird deadline? No worries—late registration is still open! Just keep in mind that:

• Late registrations might come with a small extra service fee (usually around 200 RMB), so be sure to sign up early!
• You can also register on-site at the Canton Fair complex or at designated hotel registration offices, though keep in mind that the process might take a little longer.

Also, Be Sure to Check the Registration Timeline

Once you've finished your registration:

• Keep an eye on your inbox! You’ll receive a confirmation email within 3–5 business days.
• If you’re applying for a business visa, we’ll send your official invitation letter your way shortly after your booking is confirmed!
• If you've already registered or are reusing a previous badge, picking up your badge at the venue is a breeze—it only takes about 5 minutes!

[10% OFF] Top Hotel Picks near the Canton Fair

Looking for a place to stay near the Canton Fair? Check out Trip.com's nearby hotel options. Don't forget to claim the 10% OFF coupon below!

1. The Westin Pazhou: This hotel features a fitness center, an indoor pool, a relaxing spa, and an on-site restaurant. Plus, you're just steps away from the Canton Fair!

2. Shangri-La Hotel Guangzhou: Treat yourself to luxury at this stunning hotel, which boasts a health club, an outdoor tennis court, a full-service spa, and a variety of dining options. Plus, you're just a kilometer away from the excitement of the Canton Fair!

3. Langham Place Guangzhou: This hotel features a full-service spa, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a variety of dining options. Plus, you're just steps away from the Canton Fair!

4. The Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou: Experience true luxury at this hotel, which features a full-service spa, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a variety of dining options. Plus, you're just a few minutes' drive from the Canton Fair!

5. Soluxe Hotel Guangzhou: This hotel features a fitness center, an indoor pool, a spa, and a variety of dining options. Plus, you're just a short drive from the Canton Fair!