Canton Fair 2026: The Do’s and Don’ts for Buyers

Heading to the Canton Fair in Guangzhou? The 140th China Import and Export Fair kicks off today, 15 October, bringing together suppliers and buyers from around the world.

Held across three phases until 4 November, the fair covers everything from electronics and machinery to homewares, clothing, toys and consumer products. For businesses looking to source new products or build relationships with Chinese suppliers, it’s a great opportunity to see what’s available.

But before you pack your bags, here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

The Do’s and Don’ts

DO: Wear comfortable shoes.

There is A LOT of walking. The exhibition complex is huge, and you can easily spend an entire day on your feet visiting suppliers. Comfortable shoes are a must!

DO: Take notes and collect supplier details.

You’ll meet plenty of suppliers, and by the end of the day, it can be difficult to remember who offered what. Take photos, collect business cards and record product specifications, prices and minimum order quantities.

DO: Ask questions.

Check production lead times, minimum order quantities, packaging options and whether samples are available. These details can make a big difference when it comes to placing an order.

DO: Understand your Incoterms.

Just as important as your payment terms, Incoterms define the responsibilities of the buyer and seller for delivery, transport costs and risk. Make sure you understand exactly what your supplier’s quote includes ,and what it doesn’t, before agreeing to a deal. If you're unsure, check with your freight forwarder before signing.

DON’T: Commit to an order without checking the freight first.

Found the perfect product? Before confirming your purchase, check the freight costs, dimensions, weight, packing requirements and shipping options with your freight forwarder. A great product price can look very different once freight and other import costs are added.

DON’T: Assume everything can be shipped the same way.

Product type, dimensions, weight and any applicable import restrictions can all affect how your goods are transported into Australia. Check the requirements before placing your order, particularly for products that may need permits, inspections or specific documentation.

DON’T: Leave shipping arrangements until the last minute.

Before committing to delivery dates, allow time for production, packing, transport to the port, export procedures and international shipping. Planning ahead can help avoid unnecessary surprises.

One last tip

The Canton Fair is a great place to find new opportunities, but remember to look beyond the product price. Understanding the full landed cost, including freight, duties, taxes and other import charges, will help you make a more informed purchasing decision. Under the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA), eligible goods may qualify for reduced or zero customs duty, depending on the product and applicable rules.

If you’re planning to ship your purchases back to Australia, End to End Logistics can help you work through your freight options and understand the costs involved before you commit.

Good luck to everyone attending, and happy sourcing!

Find dates, exhibitor information and visitor details on the official Canton Fair website.

Head here for our post on buying from multiple suppliers in China - consolidation could save you time and money.