Planning your first China trade show visit
A practical checklist for international buyers and exhibitors preparing for their first expo in China.
Visiting a trade show in China can be one of the most efficient ways to meet suppliers, compare products, and understand a market — but preparation makes all the difference.
Before you travel
- Confirm your visa requirements and allow extra processing time during peak seasons.
- Pre-register for the expo online; many shows offer free badges when you register ahead of time.
- Shortlist exhibitors you want to meet and note their hall and booth numbers.
- Book hotels near the venue or along a direct metro line to reduce daily travel time.
At the venue
Arrive early on your priority days. Mornings are usually quieter and easier for longer conversations with booth staff. Bring plenty of business cards, a power bank, and a lightweight bag for catalogues and samples.
Take photos of booth numbers and product labels — it is easy to forget details after walking dozens of aisles. If language is a barrier, translation apps and a few key phrases in Mandarin go a long way.
After the show
Follow up within a week while your conversations are still fresh. Sort contacts by priority and note MOQs, lead times, and certification questions you still need answered.
Browse upcoming expos on China Expos to plan your next visit around product categories and cities that match your sourcing goals.
Featured suppliers for exhibiting in China
These featured directory listings can help with booth build, logistics, staffing, AV, printing, and other expo services.
Acadia Advisory Group helps foreign companies succeed in China by providing vital business support services, company registration, accounting, and human resources. When foreign companies want to start doing business in China, they often need to establish a China WFOE (Wholly Fore…
ShanghaiPrint & Display is a full-service print and display production house serving exhibitors at China's biggest trade shows. We produce backlit fabric graphics, roll-up banners, directional signage, window vinyls, floor graphics, and branded merchandise. Rush turnarounds avail…
SinoAV Solutions is China's leading provider of audio-visual technology and event production services. We supply LED walls, PA systems, lighting rigs, streaming setups, and full AV crews for trade expos, conferences, and corporate events across mainland China and Hong Kong. Trust…