At the Canton Fair, Should Buyers Place Orders or Screen Suppliers First?

The first phase of the 140th Canton Fair is scheduled to run from October 15 to 19 in Guangzhou. As the fair approaches, first-time visitors are asking a practical question: should they aim to place orders on the spot, or use the event to research the market and identify suppliers?
A Guangzhou-based professional who has supported overseas buyers shared their personal experience: buyers with a clear sourcing plan can contact suppliers in advance, map out relevant halls, and use the fair to check products and credentials. Visitors who are still exploring can use their first pass to learn about product categories, price ranges, and supplier types.
For serious buyers, the fair can be a useful place to start conversations and shortlist suppliers. Further checks—such as reviewing samples, specifications, and delivery terms—may still be needed afterward, sometimes at a factory or showroom.
This is one person’s experience, not an official Canton Fair purchasing rule. The right approach depends on the product, order size, and buyer’s process.