Canton Fair 2026: China Visa Guide for Ethiopian Importers and Traders
Ethiopian traders attending the 140th Canton Fair need a Chinese business (M) visa, an official invitation letter, and enough time to complete both steps. Ethiopia has no visa-free or e-Visa route into China, so applicants must complete the visa process before departure.
With the fair opening on October 15, 2026, this guide covers the dates, invitation process, China visa application in Addis Ababa, and practical planning for Guangzhou.
When is the 140th Canton Fair?
The Autumn 2026 Canton Fair runs from October 15 to November 4, 2026, at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou.
| Phase | Dates | Main product categories |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | October 15–19 | Electronics, appliances, machinery, vehicles, hardware, and new energy |
| Phase 2 | October 23–27 | Consumer goods, home décor, gifts, ceramics, furniture, and building materials |
| Phase 3 | October 31–November 4 | Textiles, garments, shoes, bags, food, health, and medical products |
Choose the phase that matches your sourcing category before booking. Garment and textile buyers will generally want Phase 3, while machinery buyers should target Phase 1 and many construction-material buyers should target Phase 2.
Step 1: Get your Canton Fair invitation letter
The invitation letter is a central supporting document for the business visa. Overseas buyers can register through the Canton Fair's official Buyer Service System and apply for their buyer badge and invitation.
Invitation access can be more difficult for new buyers without an existing Chinese supplier relationship. Options include:
- Ask a participating Chinese exhibitor or established supplier to issue an invitation
- Contact official Canton Fair support channels or an authorized cooperative partner
- Work with an experienced travel partner that can guide the registration and supporting-document process
Harmaz Travel can help Ethiopian buyers prepare the invitation request and supporting travel documents. The invitation and visa remain subject to approval by the relevant Chinese authorities.
Step 2: Apply for the China business (M) visa
Ordinary visa applications are submitted through the China Visa Application Service Center in Addis Ababa. Check its current appointment and submission requirements before visiting.
Documents commonly required
- A passport valid for at least six months with blank visa pages
- A completed visa application form and recent passport photograph
- Your official Canton Fair or Chinese business invitation letter
- Round-trip flight and hotel reservations
- Bank statements or other proof of sufficient funds
- A company introduction letter if traveling on behalf of your business
Indicative visa fees
| Entry type | Indicative fee |
|---|---|
| Single entry | ETB 2,980 |
| Double entry | ETB 4,360 |
| Six-month multiple entry | ETB 5,850 |
| Twelve-month or longer multiple entry | ETB 8,830 |
Fees and requirements can change. Confirm the current amount with the visa application center before submitting. Even if faster processing is available for fair attendees, allow several weeks for the invitation and visa stages.
Step 3: Plan your Guangzhou trip
- Book accommodation early. Hotels near the Pazhou Complex fill quickly during fair dates.
- Activate your buyer badge. Use the official fair platform for registration, maps, exhibitor lists, and updates.
- Shortlist suppliers. The complex is very large, so organize target exhibitors by hall before arrival.
- Prepare digital payments. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay and confirm that your chosen payment method works for visitors.
How Harmaz Travel can help
Harmaz supports Ethiopian importers with invitation preparation, M visa document review, flight booking, and hotel arrangements near the Pazhou Complex. Start early so an invitation or paperwork delay does not affect your travel dates.
Frequently asked questions
Do Ethiopians need a visa to attend the Canton Fair?
Yes. Ethiopian passport holders need a Chinese business (M) visa before traveling to the Canton Fair.
What visa type do I need for the Canton Fair?
The M-category business visa is normally used for commercial and trade activities, supported by a valid invitation letter.
Can I obtain a Canton Fair invitation without a Chinese business contact?
First-time buyers may request support through official Canton Fair channels, a participating exhibitor or supplier, or an experienced travel partner.
How early should I apply?
Start as soon as the invitation letter is secured and allow several weeks before departure for the visa process and any document requests.
Which phase covers garments and textiles?
Phase 3, scheduled for October 31 to November 4, 2026, covers textiles, garments, shoes, bags, food, health, and medical products.