Match your visit to the relevant product categories
Check the current Canton Fair session, phase dates and exhibition sections on the official website. Use the exhibitor and product information to build a shortlist, then confirm meetings with the suppliers most relevant to your buying brief. Avoid booking around an old fair calendar.
Review the current overseas buyer registration and badge requirements through the official Buyer Service System. Entry badges, invitation documents and permission to enter China are separate matters. Confirm the requirements applicable to your situation with the organiser and relevant authorities.
Prepare a concise specification sheet, target quantities, destination requirements and packaging expectations. Share it with priority suppliers before the meeting so they can bring relevant samples and technical information.
Capture a comparable record at every supplier meeting
- Record the supplier’s legal name, booth location and contact responsible for the quotation.
- Identify the exact product model and document any changes requested to the displayed sample.
- Ask about minimum quantities, tooling, production lead time and sample preparation.
- Review available compliance evidence for your intended market and identify missing items.
- Confirm the manufacturing location and whether production is subcontracted.
- Agree who will send the revised quotation, sample or technical file and by what date.
Use one meeting sheet for every supplier so price comparisons use the same assumptions. Separate a preliminary booth quotation from an approved purchase order. Ask permission before recording people or confidential product material.
Label collected samples with the supplier, model and meeting reference. Keep sample collection and onward transport requirements visible, especially when products need special acceptance checks.
Turn the shortlist into approved next actions
After the fair, reconcile quotations against the same specification. Verify shortlisted suppliers, review samples and agree inspection requirements before a production commitment. For multiple orders, collect packing estimates and ready dates so consolidation and freight can be planned.
Does meeting a supplier at the fair replace verification?
No. Confirm the legal entity, production capability, product evidence and contract terms for the actual order.
Can I arrange China-side follow-up after returning home?
Ask VG Shipping about the specific support needed, such as sample collection, supplier follow-up or freight coordination. Confirm the scope and fees before assigning the work.
Continue with supplier verification or Canton Fair business assistance.
Reference: Canton Fair official buyer guide. Check the current official requirements for your shipment.