Sourcing
& Business Guide

Essential resources for foreign buyers to navigate China's industrial landscape and conduct successful business

Explore Industrial Hubs Canton Fair Info

Major Industrial Hubs

Key manufacturing and business clusters in China

Yangtze River Delta industrial landscape

Yangtze River Delta

Most Developed

Shanghai-centered region with advanced manufacturing and tech industries

Shanghai

Financial hub and high-tech manufacturing

Suzhou

Electronics and machinery production

Hangzhou

E-commerce and automotive industries

Pearl River Delta manufacturing hub

Pearl River Delta

Export Hub

Guangdong-based manufacturing powerhouse with global supply chains

Guangzhou

Comprehensive manufacturing and trade

Shenzhen

Electronics and tech innovation

Dongguan

Consumer goods and electronics assembly

Bohai Rim industrial area

Bohai Rim

Heavy Industry

Northern China's industrial heartland with diverse manufacturing

Beijing

Tech, automotive, and pharmaceutical industries

Tianjin

Port city with heavy machinery production

Qingdao

Appliances, shipbuilding, and automotive

Chengdu-Chongqing industrial zone

Chengdu-Chongqing

Emerging

Western China's growing manufacturing and tech center

Chengdu

Electronics, aerospace, and IT services

Chongqing

Automotive and machinery manufacturing

Central China industrial region

Central China

Growing

Key manufacturing transfer destination with diverse industries

Wuhan

Automotive, electronics, and steel production

Zhengzhou

Electronics assembly and logistics hub

Northeast China industrial base

Northeast China

Heavy

Traditional industrial base with focus on heavy manufacturing

Shenyang

Machinery, automotive, and aerospace

Dalian

Shipbuilding, chemicals, and port industries

Business Travel Survival Guide

Practical tips for foreign buyers in China

Payment Methods

China is largely a cashless society, with mobile payments dominating.

Solutions for Foreigners:

  • Use Alipay TourPass with international credit cards
  • Set up WeChat Pay with help from Chinese partners
  • Carry sufficient RMB cash for smaller transactions
  • Major hotels and international businesses accept Visa/Mastercard

Transportation

Inter-city Travel:

  • High-speed trains: Book via 12306.cn (English version) or Trip.com
  • Flights: Use Ctrip, Trip.com, or international booking platforms

Local Transport:

  • Ride-hailing: Didi Chuxing (supports English)
  • Metro: Use city-specific apps or Alipay transit codes
  • Taxis: Ensure they use the meter or agree on price beforehand

Internet Access

Many international websites/services are blocked in China.

Solutions:

  • Install a reliable VPN before arriving in China
  • Purchase a local SIM card at the airport (requires passport)
  • Major international hotels often provide VPN services
  • Use WeChat for business communications with Chinese partners

Useful Business Apps:

WeChat QQ Alibaba

Language Support

English proficiency varies, especially outside major business centers.

Essential Tools:

  • Google Translate (download Chinese package beforehand)
  • Microsoft Translator for real-time conversations
  • Hire a local interpreter for important business meetings
  • Use business card translation apps for networking events

Useful Business Phrases:

你好 (Hello) 谢谢 (Thank you) 请 (Please)

Business Accommodation

Recommended Areas:

  • Shanghai: Pudong (financial district), Jing'an
  • Guangzhou: Tianhe District (CBD)
  • Shenzhen: Futian, Nanshan (tech area)
  • Beijing: Chaoyang (business district)

Booking Platforms:

Booking.com Trip.com Marriott Bonvoy

Business Etiquette

Understanding local customs helps build better business relationships.

Key Tips:

  • Exchange business cards with both hands, showing respect
  • Meetings often start with small talk before business discussions
  • Dining is an important part of business culture
  • Gifts are appreciated but avoid expensive ones (may cause discomfort)
  • Punctuality is important, but allow flexibility for local partners

Canton Fair

China's largest trade fair for global buyers

About the Canton Fair

The China Import and Export Fair, known as the Canton Fair, is the oldest and largest trade fair in China. Established in 1957, it is held twice a year in Guangzhou and attracts buyers from all over the world.

Schedule

  • Spring Session: April 15-19, 23-27, 30-May 5
  • Autumn Session: October 15-19, 23-27, 30-November 4
  • Three phases covering different product categories

Location

  • Canton Fair Complex, Pazhou Island, Guangzhou
  • Metro Line 8: Pazhou Station
  • 1 hour from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

Product Categories

Electronics & Appliances Lighting Equipment Machinery Home Decor Textiles & Garments Furniture Gift Items Hardware & Tools

Exhibitor Information

Registration

Pre-register online for faster entry and avoid long queues.

Register Now

Admission

Free for international buyers with valid business credentials.

Business Services

  • • Translation services
  • • Meeting rooms booking
  • • Logistics support
  • • Business matching

Contact

Website: www.cantonfair.org.cn

Email: info@cantonfair.org.cn

Tips for Attending Canton Fair

Before the Fair

  • Pre-register online to save time
  • Research exhibitors in advance
  • Book accommodation near Pazhou
  • Prepare business cards (plenty!)
  • Install necessary apps (WeChat, translator)

During the Fair

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds
  • Take photos of products with booth numbers
  • Schedule factory visits while in China
  • Use the official app for navigation
  • Network with other international buyers

After the Fair

  • Follow up with suppliers immediately
  • Compare quotes and capabilities
  • Arrange factory inspections
  • Negotiate terms and MOQs
  • Plan for next session if needed