Top Trade & Business Exhibitions in China 2025: Explore Opportunities

China, often referred to as the "world’s factory," continues to be a global hub for trade and innovation, hosting some of the largest and most influential trade exhibitions in the world. Attending an exhibition in China in 2025 offers unparalleled opportunities for businesses to connect with suppliers, explore cutting-edge technologies, and tap into the rapidly growing Chinese market. These events attract millions of visitors, thousands of exhibitors, and facilitate billions in trade deals, making them critical platforms for networking, market expansion, and industry insights.

Why Attend Trade Exhibitions in China?

China’s trade fairs are renowned for their scale, diversity, and ability to connect international businesses with Chinese manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. With the country’s economy continuing to expand and its focus on innovation, 2025 is an ideal year to explore opportunities in sectors like technology, manufacturing, consumer goods, and more. These exhibitions offer:

• Networking Opportunities: Meet industry leaders, potential partners, and buyers from across the globe.

• Market Insights: Gain access to the latest trends, technologies, and consumer preferences in China’s dynamic market.

• Business Expansion: Source reliable suppliers, negotiate deals, and explore new markets with competitive pricing.

• Cultural Exchange: Understand China’s business landscape and build long-term relationships.

Here are the top trade and business exhibitions in China for 2025, each offering unique opportunities to grow your business.

1. China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair)

Dates: Spring Session: April 15–19 (Phase 1), April 23–27 (Phase 2), May 1–5 (Phase 3); Autumn Session: October 15–19 (Phase 1), October 23–27 (Phase 2), October 31–November 4 (Phase 3)
Location: China Import and Export Fair Complex, Guangzhou
Industries: Electronics, appliances, household items, machinery, textiles, and more
Key Stats: 25,000+ exhibitors, 200,000+ buyers per session
Website: cantonfair.org.cn

The Canton Fair, established in 1957, is China’s largest and most comprehensive trade fair, often dubbed the “barometer of China’s foreign trade.” Held biannually in Guangzhou, it spans three phases, each focusing on different product categories, from electronics and machinery to consumer goods and textiles. In 2025, the fair will feature over 60,000 booths and attract buyers from over 200 countries, making it a cornerstone for global trade. The Spring 2025 session will include a special zone for service robots, reflecting China’s push toward automation and AI. With strict exhibitor selection and a focus on high-quality products, the Canton Fair is ideal for businesses seeking reliable suppliers and long-term partnerships.

2. China International Import Expo (CIIE)

Dates: November 5–10, 2025
Location: National Exhibition and Convention Center, Shanghai
Industries: Consumer goods, food and agriculture, medical equipment, smart mobility, trade in services
Key Stats: 3,400+ exhibitors, 150,000+ visitors
Website: ciie.org

The China International Import Expo (CIIE) is a premier platform for showcasing imported goods and services, emphasizing China’s commitment to global trade. Held annually in Shanghai, CIIE attracts Fortune 500 companies and industry leaders, with 2023 seeing deals worth over $1.38 billion in just two days. The 2025 edition will feature sectors like intelligent industry, healthcare, and consumer goods, alongside the Hongqiao Forum for economic discussions. CIIE is perfect for brands looking to enter the Chinese market or forge partnerships with regional players.

3. Yiwu International Commodities Fair

Dates: October 21–24, 2025
Location: Yiwu International Expo Center, Yiwu, Zhejiang
Industries: Small consumer goods, household items, gifts, and crafts
Key Stats: 2,500+ booths, 200,000+ buyers
Website: yiwufair.com

Known as the “world’s supermarket,” Yiwu hosts this annual fair, which is a magnet for small buyers seeking wholesale consumer goods at competitive prices. The 2025 Yiwu International Commodities Fair will showcase products from tens of thousands of Chinese factories, attracting buyers from Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. Unlike temporary fairs, Yiwu’s permanent markets complement the event, offering year-round sourcing opportunities. This fair is ideal for businesses looking for affordable, high-volume products.

4. Chinaplas

Dates: April 15–18, 2025
Location: Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center, Shenzhen
Industries: Plastics, rubber, and related technologies
Key Stats: 3,600+ exhibitors, 180,000+ visitors
Website: chinaplasonline.com

Chinaplas is the world’s leading trade fair for the plastics and rubber industries, showcasing innovations in materials, machinery, and sustainable solutions. With China being a global leader in manufacturing, this event draws industry professionals seeking cutting-edge technologies. The 2025 edition in Shenzhen will focus on eco-friendly materials and smart manufacturing, making it essential for businesses in packaging, automotive, and electronics sectors.

5. Auto Shanghai

Dates: April 23–May 2, 2025
Location: National Exhibition and Convention Center, Shanghai
Industries: Automotive, smart mobility, electric vehicles
Key Stats: 1,000+ exhibitors, 810,000+ visitors
Website: autoshanghai.auto

Auto Shanghai is one of the world’s most significant automotive trade shows, highlighting the latest trends in electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving, and smart mobility. With China leading the global EV market, this 2025 event will showcase advancements from both domestic and international brands. It’s a must-attend for automotive professionals looking to exchange insights and explore partnerships.

6. China International Furniture Fair (CIFF)

Dates: March 18–31, 2025
Location: Guangzhou and other cities
Industries: Furniture, interior design, home decor
Key Stats: 4,000+ exhibitors, 200,000+ visitors
Website: ciff-gz.com

CIFF is the world’s largest furniture exhibition, offering a comprehensive platform for furniture manufacturers, designers, and retailers. Held in Guangzhou, the 2025 event will cover everything from home furniture to office and outdoor solutions. It’s an excellent opportunity for businesses in the interior design and home decor industries to connect with global suppliers and explore innovative designs.

7. China Beauty Expo (CBE)

Dates: May 12–14, 2025
Location: Shanghai New International Expo Center, Shanghai
Industries: Cosmetics, skincare, beauty equipment
Key Stats: 2,800+ exhibitors, 100,000+ visitors
Website: chinabeautyexpo.com

CBE is Asia’s leading beauty trade fair, connecting suppliers, brands, and distributors in cosmetics, skincare, and packaging. The 2025 edition will feature innovative products and summit forums on industry trends, making it a vital event for beauty professionals aiming to tap into China’s booming beauty market.

8. China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO)

Dates: September 17–25, 2025
Location: Myanmar (outside China)
Industries: Machinery, electronics, tourism, digital goods
Key Stats: 1,700+ exhibitors, 40+ participating countries
Website: caexpo.org

While hosted in Myanmar for 2025, CAEXPO remains a critical platform for China-ASEAN trade, covering diverse sectors like digital goods, health, and tourism. It’s an excellent opportunity for businesses to explore Southeast Asian markets while leveraging China’s trade networks.

9. Bauma China

Dates: November 26–29, 2025
Location: Shanghai New International Expo Centre, Shanghai
Industries: Construction machinery, building materials
Key Stats: 3,000+ exhibitors, 170,000+ visitors
Website: bauma-china.com

Bauma China is Asia’s largest construction machinery trade fair, showcasing equipment and technologies for the world’s biggest construction market. The 2025 event will be crucial for professionals in construction, mining, and infrastructure development.

10. China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE)

Dates: April 2025 (exact dates TBD)
Location: Hainan Free Trade Port, Haikou
Industries: Consumer goods, luxury products, retail
Key Stats: 4,100+ brands, 65+ Fortune 500 firms
Website: cicpe.com

CICPE, held in Hainan, focuses on high-end consumer goods and luxury products, attracting global brands and buyers. The 2025 event will emphasize China’s growing consumer market, offering opportunities for retail and luxury sectors.

Tips for Attending Trade Exhibitions in China

• Plan Ahead: Register early, book accommodations, and arrange interpreters to navigate language barriers.

• Research Exhibitors: Review exhibitor lists to target key suppliers or partners.

• Understand Logistics: Familiarize yourself with visa requirements, transportation, and venue layouts.

• Leverage Networking: Attend forums, workshops, and matchmaking events to maximize connections.

• Verify Suppliers: Use credit reports to ensure supplier reliability.

Conclusion

Attending a trade exhibition in China in 2025 is a strategic move for businesses aiming to expand their global footprint. From the Canton Fair’s vast product range to CIIE’s focus on imports and CAEXPO’s regional outreach, these events offer unmatched opportunities to source products, forge partnerships, and stay ahead of industry trends. Plan your visit, engage with exhibitors, and seize the chance to grow your business in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.