Everything UK importers need to know — from visa & costs to suppliers, shipping, and ROI.
The Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair) is the world’s largest B2B sourcing event, featuring 25,000+ exhibitors and 200,000+ international buyers.
Meet verified Chinese manufacturers without relying on trading agents
Negotiate pricing face-to-face (often 10–30% savings)
Accelerate product development and branding
Reduce dependency on EU-only or single suppliers
China remains a key manufacturing partner for UK SMEs, Amazon sellers, and distributors despite regulatory and compliance requirements.
| Phase | Dates (2026) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 15–19 April | Electronics, Machinery, Hardware |
| Phase 2 | 23–27 April | Home, Lifestyle, Gifts |
| Phase 3 | 1–5 May | Apparel, Medical, FMCG |
Phase 2 + Phase 3
Phase 1
Phase 2
Location: Pazhou Complex, Guangzhou
LHR → CAN
MAN → CAN
LGW → CAN
China M (Business) Visa
Required (Canton Fair or Chinese supplier)
4–7 working days (priority service available)
Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (UK)
| Hotel Type | Area | Nightly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Pazhou | £75 – £110 |
| Mid-Range | Tianhe | £120 – £190 |
| Luxury | Zhujiang New Town | £220 – £350 |
| Method | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | 30–40 days | Bulk shipments |
| Air Freight | 6–10 days | Urgent goods |
| Express | 3–5 days | Samples |
Source directly instead of relying on marketplaces
Negotiate launch-friendly order quantities
Ensure labelling meets UK regulations
Confirm carton, pallet, and barcode requirements
High ROI when combined with supplier verification and QC.
Pre-fair and on-ground support
Factory audits & validation
Quality inspections
Price and MOQ negotiation
Door-to-door shipping to the UK
Get expert guidance and maximise your sourcing results
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