Canton Fair in Decline: Reality 202

The Canton Fair is China’s largest trade exhibition, which has attracted buyers from around the world for decades. But in 2024, more and more importers are asking: is it really worth attending the fair in person? Or is it enough to stick to online platforms like 1688.com, Alibaba, and video calls?

In this article, we share our personal experience from attending the 136th session of the Canton Fair (Autumn 2024) and explore whether attending in person is still justified—especially if you’re a new entrepreneur.

Online vs. In-Person: Is It Worth the Trip?

Many beginners opt for online supplier lists. And it makes sense: you can easily register on 1688.com, contact suppliers, make a deal, and receive photos and videos. Why spend money on flights and hotels?

But here’s the catch: a supplier’s quality on 1688 doesn’t guarantee reliability. Their website might look amazing, with great photos and “gold badges” of trust. But when you meet them in person at the fair, your impression might change completely. That’s exactly what happened to us...

Expectations vs. Reality: Meeting the Suppliers

We found an interesting manufacturer online. Their site had beautiful photos, a clean production line, and impressive case studies. But at the fair, three staff members approached us and couldn’t clearly explain what they produced, how, or for whom. It all felt like a formality.

The question is: what happens if issues arise after payment? Who takes responsibility for defects? Who will stay in touch with you?

This is when you realize: a personal meeting gives you 70% of the understanding of who you’re actually working with.

What You Miss by Not Attending the Fair

Here are a few things that online communication simply can’t convey:

• Body language and supplier reactions. During in-person meetings, you immediately see how confident a company is, how they handle unexpected questions, and how they negotiate.

• Product samples in real life. Photos are one thing, but the actual quality of plastic, assembly, and packaging is something you can only assess in person.

• Contact with a real manager. Online sellers often use remote sales staff. At the fair, you meet actual factory reps or official export office personnel.

Who Should Definitely Attend the Canton Fair?

You should go if you:

• Are launching a brand or product line and want to find a reliable manufacturer

• Work in a niche where quality is critical—electronics, appliances, packaging, furniture

• Want to understand market trends and see what others are offering

—A trip to the fair can help you avoid dozens of costly mistakes.

Who Might Be Fine Staying Home?

You can skip the fair if you:

• Are doing dropshipping or selling on marketplaces and aren’t placing large orders yet

• Have a limited budget that doesn’t allow spending $1000–$1500 on travel (flights, hotel, meals, logistics)

• Have a trusted agent or partner in China that you can rely on

Unreal China’s Conclusion

Yes, part of business is moving online. But personal contact with suppliers still makes all the difference—especially in B2B. The 2024 Canton Fair showed us that:

• Many Chinese companies look convincing only on the internet

• Without face-to-face communication, it’s easy to end up working with a reseller

• The fair is not just a showroom—it’s a tool for supplier verification

If you’re serious about doing business with China long-term, you must attend at least once. It’s an investment that will pay off multiple times over.

Looking for reliable logistics from China, support at the trade fair, or help negotiating with suppliers? Get in touch with Unreal China—we’ll help you build a risk-free and cost-effective supply chain.