If you're coming to Guangzhou for trade, you'll likely need a China Business (M) Visa.

To apply, you'll need:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months

• An invitation letter from a Chinese company or fair organizer

• Proof of travel (return ticket and hotel booking)

The processing time ranges from 3 to 10 working days. Express options may be available depending on your location.

Alternative: Transit Without Visa (TWOV)

If you're transiting through China on your way to a third country, you might qualify for a 144-hour visa-free stay in Guangdong Province.

➡️ Read our China Visa Guide
➡️ Check TWOV Eligibility for your flight route

Guangzhou is at the center of the Pearl River Delta manufacturing region. It's home to thousands of factories and trading companies and is a gateway to nearby cities like Foshan, Dongguan, and Shenzhen.

The city supports:

• Rapid production cycles

• Affordable custom manufacturing

• Efficient logistics via sea, land, and air

• A growing number of English-speaking suppliers and agents

And with the Canton Fair and a network of year-round wholesale markets, buyers have access to everything from fashion to furniture.

The Canton Fair is China's oldest and largest trade event.

It’s held twice each year:

• Spring (April–May) and Autumn (October–November)

• Each season has three phases, focusing on different product categories

The venue is the Canton Fair Complex in Pazhou, one of the world’s largest exhibition spaces.

Key tips:

• Register online in advance for free entry

• Bring your passport and business credentials

• Allow at least 2–3 days per phase if you want to explore properly

➡️ See our Canton Fair Dates 2025

Outside the fair, Guangzhou has dozens of permanent wholesale zones — open year-round and packed with product options.

1. Zhanxi Fashion Market

• Location: Near Guangzhou Railway Station

• Focus: Clothing, shoes, fast fashion

• Best for: Retailers and boutique importers

2. Baiyun World Leather Centre

• Location: Baiyun District

• Focus: Leather bags, wallets, belts, and footwear

• Often offers OEM/ODM options for branding

3. Yide Lu Market

• Location: Yuexiu District

• Focus: Toys, kitchenware, small electronics, party goods

• Great for bulk seasonal and gift items

4. Zhongda Textile Market

• One of Asia’s largest fabric trading hubs

• Focus: Raw fabrics, trims, buttons, garment accessories

• Ideal for designers and clothing manufacturers

➡️ Full listings and maps in our Guangzhou Wholesale Market Directory

The best hotel depends on where you'll spend your time — Pazhou for the fair, Yuexiu for older markets, or Tianhe for central business.

Pazhou (Canton Fair area)

• Langham Place Guangzhou – Upscale, walkable to the fairgrounds

• Other options: Westin Pazhou, InterContinental

Tianhe (CBD and shopping)

• Oakwood Premier Guangzhou – Serviced apartments with kitchen

• Excellent food, nightlife, and easy metro access

Yuexiu (close to markets)

• LN Hotel Five – Boutique style by the river

• Budget hotels also available in the area

➡️ Compare more options in our Guangzhou Hotel Directory

Guangzhou’s metro system is modern, fast, and foreigner-friendly.

• Use Line 8 to reach the Canton Fair

• Line 2 runs through Baiyun and Zhanxi

• English signage is available at all stations

Buy a Yang Cheng Tong transit card or use Alipay/WeChat Pay to tap in/out.

Didi (China's Uber)

Install the Didi app and use English-language mode. It’s the easiest way to hail a ride without needing Mandarin.

➡️ Guangzhou Metro Navigator

Cantonese food is famous worldwide, and Guangzhou offers options for both quick lunches and formal dinners.

• Guangzhou Restaurant (广州酒家) – Iconic Cantonese cuisine

• Element Fresh (Tianhe) – Western salads, pasta, and juices

• JoJo’s Riverside – Rooftop cocktails and riverside views, ideal for entertaining suppliers

➡️ More in our Guangzhou Food Guide
➡️ Also see: Bars & Rooftops

If it’s your first time sourcing in Guangzhou, keep these tips in mind:

• Bring 100+ business cards

• WeChat is essential — install and create your business profile

• Take photos and notes of each booth or shop

• Always clarify: “Is this price including shipping?”

• Don’t be afraid to negotiate — it’s expected

➡️ Find interpreters, guides, and agents in our Business Services Directory

The city’s main airport is about 45 minutes from downtown by taxi or 1 hour by metro.

• Metro Line 3 connects directly to Tianhe

• SIM cards, ATMs, and money changers available at arrivals

• Didi and taxis are available at designated pickup zones

➡️ Guangzhou Airport Guide

Once you’ve placed an order or completed negotiations, you’ll need to arrange shipping.

Options include:

• Air freight – faster, more expensive

• Sea freight (FCL or LCL) – cheaper, ideal for bulk

• Courier (DHL, SF Express) – best for samples

Some markets have onsite forwarders who can pack and quote rates on the spot. Always ask your supplier if they have a preferred agent or can recommend someone reliable.

Guangzhou remains the beating heart of China’s sourcing ecosystem. With strategic planning, good suppliers, and local knowledge, you can build lasting trade relationships and grow your business.

Let Zhujianger be your trusted guide — before, during, and after your trip.

➡️ Plan Your Canton Fair Visit
➡️Search Hotels by District

Disclaimer:
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and is not legal or travel advice. Visa regulations, trade policies, and local conditions in China may change without notice. Always consult official sources or your local Chinese consulate before making travel arrangements.