Why should I take this course?

Navigating the Canton Fair, the largest trade event in China, can be overwhelming, especially for new or intermediate importers. Our "Ultimate Guide to Sourcing Suppliers from the Canton Fair" gives you detailed insights and step-by-step strategies to ensure you make the most of your visit.

This course is designed to give you confidence to travel to the Canton Fair and avoid making costly mistakes.  You will get the tools and knowledge needed to plan your trip and connect with the right suppliers to create a profitable importing venture.

Who is this course for?

This course is perfect for:

• New importers looking to break into the global market.
• Intermediate importers seeking to expand their supplier network.
• SMEs aiming to find reliable manufacturers.
• Entrepreneurs interested in sourcing new products.

What will I learn from this course?

By the end of this course, you will learn:

• How to plan and prepare for your trip, ensuring all registration, VISA, travel and accommodation details are covered.
• How to study the Canton Fair phases and sections to effectively plan getting around the huge Canton Fair complex.
• How to communicate and negotiate with Chinese suppliers confidently, securing the best deals and terms.
• How to assess and compare potential suppliers, ensuring you choose the right partners for your business needs.
• How to arrange factory vists and place new Purchase Order contracts.
• How to avoid 16 of the most common pitfalls when sourcing and importing from China.

What content does this course provide?

This course provides you with modules to study at your own pace, covering:

• Step-by-Step Guides: Easy to understand guides showing you how to research your products, plan your trip, navigate around the Canton Fair and how to ask the right questions.
• Video Tutorials: Videos covering key topics like trip planning, getting around the Canton Fair, having detailed conversations with potential suppliers, negotiation tactics, factory vistis and supplier evaluation.
• Checklists and Templates: Downloadable resources to help you stay organized and efficient.
• Essential Apps and Tools: Recommendations and download links for must-have apps to make your trip smoother.
• Expert Tips and Advice: Tips and advice based on our real world experience.

Introduction and Course Overview

• Overview of the Canton Fair
• Canton Fair Dates & Phases
• Course Overview 

Understand the Fundamentals of Global Trade

• Incoterms® 2020
• Shipping Container Specifications & Shipping Methods
• Understanding Risk Along the Global Supply Chain
• Landed Cost Analysis
• Payment Terms, International Payments and Trade Finance 

BEFORE Your Trip to China

Research Your Products and Understand Your Business Plan

• Landed Costs, Sell Pricing and Profit Amounts
• Sales & Marketing Plan and Costs
• Business Operating Costs
• Competition and Risk Factors

Research Exhibitors and Sections

• Using the Canton Fair's Official Website
• How to get Around the Canton Fair

Visa Requirements & Fair Registration

• China VISA Requirements
• How to Apply for a Business VISA
• How to Register to Attend the Canton Fair

Preparing Your Trip to Guangzhou

• Recommended Hotels (Luxury, Mid-Range, Budget), with link to Google Maps
• Wholesale Markets Around Guangzhou, with link to Google Maps
• Tourist Hotspots & Nightlife, with link to Google Maps
• Booking Flights & Accommodation
• Travel Insurance & Health Precautions
• Emergency Contact Numbers

Prepare Product Specifications and Supplier Discussions

• Draft your full product specifications sheet
• List of Questions to ask Suppliers

Software Apps to Download, Checklist Before You Travel

• Restricted Services in China
• Apps to Download to Help Travelling in China
• Pre-travel checklist

DURING Your Trip in China

How to Reach the Canton Fair

• Travel Options Upon Arrival in China, using Metro, Taxis, Didi and Shuttle Busses
• Travel Tips

Attending the Canton Fair

• Researching Exhibitors and Sections
• Layout of the China Import and Export Fair Complex
• Getting Around the Canton Fair

Communicating with Vendors: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Introductions
• Discussing Product Requirements
• Company Background Information
• Manufacturers Vs Trading Companies
• Customization and Setup Costs
• Negotiation Tips
• Minimum Order Quantities and Pricing
• Quality Control, Samples and Warranty Backup Service
• Documenting Conversations for Future Assessment

AFTER Your Trip to the Canton Fair

Factory Visits

• Discussions During Factory Visits
• Verifying Supplier Information
• Collecting and Testing Samples

Assessing and Comparing Suppliers

• Using Spreadsheets for Comparison & Evaluation
• Key Factors for Comparison (Product Specs, MOQ, Pricing)
• Making Informed Decisions

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

• 16 Common Pitfalls to be aware of, and how to avoid them.

Placing New Orders

• Drafting Purchase Orders and Sales Contracts
• Ensuring Timely Production and Shipment
• Canton Fair Conclusion

Useful Resources & Links

Useful Resources & Links

• Canton Fair Resources
• Software Apps to Download
• Google Map Locations
• Purchasing & Shipping Resources