Canton Fair Prepares to Welcome the World

Generally referred to as the Canton Fair, the China Import and Export Fair has been held in the city of Guangzhou twice a year since the spring of 1957. Hosted by China’s Ministry of Commerce together with the People’s Government of Guangdong Province, it is by far the largest trade fair in the country, having the largest variety of products, the largest number of exhibitors and visitors, and being the networking platform for the largest number of business deals signed and sealed at one venue. The more popular name of the event is a reference to the historical name of the city, Canton, which was also previously known as Kwangchow. Guangzhou is the capital of the Guangdong Province.

With more than 55,000 exhibition stands and booths set out over an area of 1,125,000 square meters, the more than 160,000 visitors from over 200 countries need plenty of time to explore all the business opportunities on offer. With this in mind, the 110th edition of the China Import and Export Fair will take place in three phases, being: Phase 1 on October 15-19; Phase 2 on October 23-27; and Phase 3 on October 31-November 4, 2011.

Some of the categories exhibitors can register under for Phase 1 include Large Machinery and Equipment; Bicycles; Vehicle Spare Parts; Hardware; Electrical Appliances; Electronic Products; Lighting Equipment; Sanitary and Bathroom Equipment; Small Machinery; Motorcycles; Chemical Product; Tools; Consumer Electronics; Computer and Communication Products; and Building and Decoration Materials. Phase 2 includes Toys; Festival Products; Kitchen and Tableware; Art Ceramics; General Ceramics; Furniture; Gardening Products; Toys; Gifts; Weaving, Rattan and Iron Arts; and Glass Artware. Phase 3 includes a range of clothing categories, as well as medicines, health products, recreation products, office supplies and food. Visitors to the Canton Fair need to secure an invitation, apply for the appropriate visas, and register to attend. Visit the China Import and Export Fair website for more information.