The Upcoming 138th Canton Fair: A Leap Forward in Global Trade
The 138th China Import and Export Fair, commonly known as the Canton Fair, is set to run from
October 15 to November 4, 2025, in
Guangzhou. This fair has long been recognized as a pivotal event in global commerce, and the upcoming edition is no exception, promising several enhancements aimed at bolstering its reputation as a premier platform for international trade.
New Travel and Accessibility Features
One of the most notable upgrades is the improvement in transportation and accessibility for attendees. The
Guangzhou Metro has introduced various measures to facilitate smoother access for international visitors. A direct entry feature allows attendees to swipe their international bank cards at the gate, along with a special day pass themed around the fair. Moreover, the
Canton Fair's official app now includes a seamless ticketing option, making it easier than ever to access the event.
Attendees can enjoy streamlined connections to
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, as new intercity railways and metro lines enable a travel time of approximately 30 minutes. Furthermore, these transport links extend to major cities within the
Greater Bay Area in under an hour. With over
400 self-service kiosks available at airports, stations, and hotels, buyers will be able to collect their badges upon arrival, ensuring a smooth transition from travel to trade activities.
Culinary Experiences and Cultural Events
As the fair welcomes over
110,000 guests daily, dining options have also seen a significant uplift. Daily meal services will now feature more than
300 dishes, showcasing both local Cantonese and international flavors. The addition of the
Canton Fair Music Cuisine Festival combines gastronomic experiences with entertainment, enriching the overall visitor experience while encouraging business exchanges in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Enhanced Translation and Support Services
Understanding that language barriers can be a challenge in cross-border trade, the fair has established
four translation service points throughout the complex. These centers are equipped with
400 translation devices and staffed by
over 100 professional interpreters, ensuring that communication flows effortlessly between buyers and suppliers.
To further address common challenges faced by international traders, the Canton Fair has unveiled a suite of
on-site professional business support services. These services span the entire trade cycle and include finance, insurance, logistics, product design, inspection, and consulting assistance—all readily accessible without disrupting the attendees' experience. Over
240 trade service institutions have partnered with the fair, providing immediate access to tailored business solutions strategically located along high-traffic exhibition routes.
Financial Services for a Smoother Experience
Financial transactions have also been simplified for attendees at the fair. All merchants will accept
international credit cards,
digital RMB, mobile payments, and cash, allowing for greater flexibility in purchasing. Additionally, the introduction of a dedicated
tax refund zone facilitates instant rebates for departing visitors directly at the complex, while
250 of nearly
1,000 refund-eligible stores citywide will support rapid refunds for retail purchases made during the event.
These various enhancements at the 138th Canton Fair underline its commitment to serving as a dynamic gateway for fostering global business growth and forging lasting partnerships. With the infrastructure and services in place, participants can anticipate a trade fair that is not just an opportunity for business but also a celebration of global commerce. For registration details, interested parties can visit the official website at
Canton Fair Registration.
As the Canton Fair approaches, the global business community eagerly awaits what promises to be a transformative experience in trade.