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Trade showB2B
SIAL IN CHINA SOUTH 2026
SIAL Guangzhou 2026 is the 4th edition of SIAL in China South, taking place from September 3-5, 2026 at the Poly World Trade Center Expo in Guangzhou, China. It is a premier international food and beverage trade platform linking the Greater Bay Area with Southeast Asia, featuring over 1,248 exhibitors and 64,748 professionals. The event is organized by Comexposium-SIAL Exhibition Co., Ltd.
Companies exhibiting at SIAL IN CHINA SOUTH 2026 include A CREATION PACKAGING (SHENZHEN) LIMITED, Foshan Yunzhi Youpin Import And Export Trading Co Ltd, FUNS LAND, GUAN and Guangzhou Ludingji Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
A CREATION PACKAGING (SHENZHEN) LIMITED
Foshan Yunzhi Youpin Import And Export Trading Co Ltd
FUNS LAND
GUAN
Guangzhou Ludingji Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
Event overview
Overview
SIAL Guangzhou 2026 is the fourth edition of SIAL in China South, a premier international food and beverage trade platform linking the vibrant Greater Bay Area with the vast markets of Southeast Asia. The exhibition serves as a gateway to southern China's high-spending consumer market and offers a dynamic lineup of concurrent events, competitions, and awards, alongside precision matchmaking services.
It is organized by Comexposium-SIAL Exhibition Co. , Ltd.
and will take place at the Poly World Trade Center Expo in Guangzhou.
TL;DR
1SIAL Guangzhou 2026 will be held from September 3-5, 2026 at the Poly World Trade Center Expo in Guangzhou, China.
2The exhibition targets the Greater Bay Area and Southeast Asian markets, connecting 65,000+ professionals and key purchasing powers.
3Key concurrent events include SIAL Innovation, SIAL IN CHINA AWARD, SIAL Snacking Awards, SIAL Chic & Tea Contest, SIAL Cup Barista Challenge, and SIAL MATCH-MAKING.
4SIAL Guangzhou is a B2B trade show with a smart casual dress code; individuals under 18 and non-industry visitors over 70 are not permitted.
5The venue is accessible via Metro Line 8 (Pazhou Station, Exit C), about 60-70 minutes from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.
Why visit
SIAL Guangzhou provides visitors with a comprehensive platform for global sourcing, featuring a wide array of F&B products across all major sectors, including snacks, dairy, meat, seafood, beverages, fresh produce, Halal, and catering supplies. The event includes precision matchmaking (SIAL MATCH-MAKING) to connect international exhibitors with targeted, pre-qualified buyers, and hosts concurrent events, competitions, and awards that highlight industry trends and innovations. Business attire is recommended, and the venue is easily accessible via metro.
Why exhibit
SIAL Guangzhou offers exhibitors strategic access to the Greater Bay Area's trillion-RMB consumer market and serves as a gateway to Southeast Asian trade, connecting with 65,000+ professionals and key buyers from ASEAN countries. The event leverages Guangzhou's industrial and logistics advantages, providing direct access to retail giants, e-commerce leaders, and premium buyers, enabling companies to reduce cross-border costs and integrate into Southeast Asian supply chains. Exhibitors have reported exceptional outcomes, including on-site container deals and high-quality professional leads.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Importers
Distributors
Retailers
Food Service Professionals
Buyers
Industry Experts
Procurement Managers
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Underground parking on and floors with 5 entrances/exits (Zhuanhui South 3rd Rd, Zhuanhui South 4th Rd, Fengpu Middle Rd). Parking fee standard: 3 yuan/15 minutes, 12 yuan/hour, 96 yuan/8 hours capped; discounted full-day rate: 24 yuan.
2,000 spaces ·
Food options
PWTC Food Court
On-site dining
Parking: Underground parking at Poly World Trade Center Expo is on levels B1 and B2 with five entrances/exits on Zhuanhui South 3rd Road, Zhuanhui South 4th Road, and Fengpu Middle Road, providing about 2,000 spaces. Private cars may use the underground lot. Exhibitors driving should follow current Guangzhou Traffic Police policies.
Gate: Primary pedestrian access is via Pazhou Station (琶洲站) Metro Exit C on Lines 8 and 11, with direct entry to PWTC Expo. Pazhou Bus Station serves routes B7, B7 Express, University Town Line 3, 229, 262, 304, 461, and 564.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Trade-only
Free registration
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
:9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Online pre-registration (trade professional)
Free for industry professionals who pre-register online; registration stays open during show days.
Scan your registration confirmation QR code at the onsite self-service counters to print your physical badge. Badges are strictly personal, non-transferable, and tied to your ID/Passport. Online registration remains open during show days, and onsite registration counters are available at venue entrances. For group registration of more than 10 people, email visit@sialchina.cn.
Ticket notes
Online pre-registration is free for industry professionals. The show is strictly open to F&B trade professionals; individuals under 18 and non-industry visitors aged over 70 are not permitted entry. Standard entry is via a visitor badge; qualified buyers can apply to the TOP BUYER Programme (topbuyer@sialchina.cn) for VIP benefits. Business attire or smart casual is recommended; slippers or shorts may lead to denied entry.
Flagship product innovation contest of SIAL in China showcasing standout new F&B products; featured among the SIAL Guangzhou 2026 events and contests programme.
SIAL in China South’s third edition ran 1–3 September 2025 at Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center (Futian). The organiser reported 1,100 exhibitors from 50 countries and regions, 56,533 professionals, 40,000 m² of space, 4,526 business matchmaking sessions, and intended deals worth nearly RMB 10 billion.
Trade and buyer mix
The show covered 14 themed sectors and integrated domestic retail, e-commerce, import-export, and international buyers from markets including Canada, Japan, Korea, ASEAN, and Latin America. Named buyer participation included Ole', AEON, JD, Yonghui-related channels, Dingdong Maicai, Eurasia Supermarket, and regional ASEAN groups such as CPF and Makro.
Concurrent events: SIAL tea mixologist contest, SIAL Cup barista challenge, SIAL Snacking Festival, and creative beverage market.
The 2026 edition relocates to Guangzhou (3–5 September 2026, Poly World Trade Center Expo) with organiser forecasts of 60,000 m², 1,500+ exhibitors, and about 65,000 professionals.
New this edition
1
Relocation to Guangzhou
The 4th SIAL in China South moves from Shenzhen to Guangzhou in 2026, held 3–5 September at Poly World Trade Center Expo.
Malaysian exhibitor Camaria Global made the global debut of its Golden Durian Puff Ball at SIAL Shenzhen 2025, winning the SIAL Innovation Bronze Award and securing multiple on-site business leads.
The recognition from the SIAL Innovation Awards has not only enhanced our brand's international visibility but also attracted more high-quality buyers to engage with us. During the exhibition, D'Lapezz successfully established several business partnerships. This honor marks an important milestone in our company's growth, and we sincerely thank SIAL International Food Exhibition for providing us with a platform to step onto the global stage.
“
This is our third time participating in SIAL Shenzhen. SIAL is indeed an outstanding exhibition brand. We have two key objectives: first, to enhance our brand awareness in the Chinese market; and second, to connect with potential importers, distributors, and buyers while gaining deeper market insights. The visitors here are of very high quality and extremely professional.
Next edition outlook
2026-09-03 – 2026-09-05
High dates, venue, and scale targets are published on the official SIAL in China site and organiser announcements; exhibitor/visitor figures for 2026 are organiser expectations, not final results.
SIAL in China South Guangzhou 2026, the 4th edition, takes place September 3-5, 2026 at the Poly World Trade Center Expo, Guangzhou. The exhibition is expected to cover 60,000 sqm with 1,500+ exhibitors and around 65,000 professionals, accelerating the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area's development into a world-class F&B trade hub and deepening links with Southeast Asia.
Venue relocation from Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center to Poly World Trade Center Expo, Guangzhou Scale-up to approximately 60,000 sqm exhibition space Growth from 1,100 exhibitors (2025) to an expected 1,500+ exhibitors Attendance target of around 65,000 professionals, up from 56,533 in 2025
Impact
A bigger and stronger platform
SIAL Shenzhen 2025, the third edition of SIAL in China South, ran September 1-3, 2025 at the Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center (Futian), gathering 1,100 exhibitors from 50 countries and regions under the theme. The Gateway to Southern China's Booming Market. Preliminary official figures show 56,533 industry professionals attended, with 4,526 business-matching sessions generating nearly RMB 10 billion in intended deals, underscoring the show's role as a benchmark F&B trade platform for southern China and Southeast Asia.
Audience quality
High-value decision-makers
The 2025 edition drew 56,533 verified industry professionals and ran 4,526 structured business-matching sessions, indicating a trade-only, buyer-focused audience. The show is strictly open to F&B industry professionals, with a TOP BUYER Programme offering qualified buyers VIP privileges, supporting high-intent sourcing traffic from China and Southeast Asia.
Exhibitor outcomes
Real business growth
Official preliminary figures for SIAL Shenzhen 2025 report nearly RMB 10 billion in intended deals generated over three days across 4,526 business-matching sessions, giving exhibitors a measurable pipeline of negotiated business from 1,100 exhibiting companies.
Intelligence
Exhibitors
2,829
Exhibitors
22
Categories
42
Countries
13
Pavilions
Top exhibitor countries
Top 10 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.
China
2,021
South Korea
103
Brazil
77
Spain
67
United States
54
Russia
50
Argentina
36
Turkey
34
Italy
33
France
33
~73% of listed exhibitors are from China.
Category breakdown
2,829Exhibitors
1~1,488
estimate
2~170
estimate
3~144
estimate
4~140
estimate
5~112
estimate
6~98
estimate
7~92
estimate
8~69
estimate
9~66
estimate
10~66
estimate
11~63
estimate
12~61
estimate
13~60
estimate
14~49
estimate
15~46
estimate
National pavilions
China
~2,021 stands
estimate
South Korea
~96 stands
estimate
Brazil
~77 stands
estimate
Spain
~67 stands
estimate
United States
~51 stands
estimate
Russia
~48 stands
estimate
Argentina
~36 stands
estimate
Italy
~33 stands
estimate
Turkey
~32 stands
estimate
Thailand
~29 stands
estimate
France
~27 stands
estimate
Canada
~20 stands
estimate
Indonesia
~20 stands
estimate
Buyer targets
High priority
Buyers sourcing
Other Food & Beverage Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Meat & Poultry Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Snacks & Sweets Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Bakery & Confectionery Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Food Packaging & Equipment Suppliers
Medium priority
Buyers sourcing
Fruit & Vegetable Product Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Import Logistics & Cold Chain Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Frozen & Convenience Food Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Organic & Functional Food Suppliers
Buyers sourcing
Seafood & Aquatic Product Suppliers
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Guangzhou, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, China; gateway to ASEAN and RCEP markets
Why it matters
SIAL Guangzhou 2026 is a critical event for accessing the southern China and Greater Bay Area F&B market, serving as a strategic gateway connecting China's manufacturing and export ecosystem with the fast-growing consumer markets of Southeast Asia and the broader Asian market. With a regional GDP exceeding RMB 15 trillion and a population of more than 86 million, the Greater Bay Area is expected to become the world's largest bay-area economy by 2026. The exhibition reflects strong demand for emerging categories such as healthy snacks, functional foods, clean-label products, premium beverages, and food-as-medicine solutions—segments increasingly shaping consumer demand across Asia. New initiatives include a dedicated Halal Food Village and an International Top Buyer Programme, positioning the show as a vital platform for cross-border trade and product discovery.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
01
Functional Dairy and Other Snacking
Consumers increasingly choose snacks delivering additional benefits: high protein, digestive support, immunity functions, and reduced sugar. From A2 dairy and camel milk to functional nutrition products, brands explore new ways to meet growing interest in gut health and personalised wellness.
Protein remains a strong purchasing driver, with consumers seeking upgraded premium meat snacks and diverse protein sources beyond traditional categories. Innovation extends across snacks, dairy, bakery, ingredients, and convenience foods.
Tea Becoming Asia's Latest Platform for Product Innovation
Driven by the global popularity of new-style tea drinks, especially across ASEAN markets, tea is becoming an important source of inspiration for product innovation. Tea flavors are rapidly expanding into bakery, dairy, chocolate, biscuits, and confectionery.
Asian Low-ABV Revolution for Diverse Drinking Occasions
Younger consumers across Asia show growing interest in lighter, more diverse beverage experiences, accelerating innovation in low-alcohol categories including tea cocktails, sparkling rice wine, and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages.
Low-GI & Functional Bakery for Healthier Everyday Life
Bakery products are entering a new stage of innovation as consumers seek a balance between enjoyment and healthier choices. Products featuring low sugar, slow-release energy, and functional nutrition are redefining the bakery category.
Mood & Sensory Snacking: Creating New Consumption Experiences
Today's consumers prefer products that create emotional connections and memorable experiences rather than taste alone. Innovations featuring extreme sour flavours, cooling effects, and multi-sensory experiences are transforming snacks.
SIAL Guangzhou 2026 Expands to 4 Halls, Positions as Asia's Food Sourcing Hub
SIAL Guangzhou 2026 will be held September 3-5 at Poly World Trade Center Expo, expanding to four exhibition halls and introducing a strengthened international buyer strategy.
Beijing Aiboxiya and Guangzhou International Convention Group Partner to Co-host SIAL Guangzhou 2026
Beijing Aiboxiya Exhibition Co., Ltd. and Guangzhou International Convention Group officially signed a cooperation agreement to jointly host SIAL Guangzhou 2026, scheduled for September 3-5 at the Poly World Trade Center Expo.
SIAL Guangzhou Unveils 7 Trends Shaping China's F&B Industry in 2026
SIAL in China and WGSN jointly identified seven emerging trends shaping China's food and beverage industry in 2026, including functional dairy, clean-label protein snacking, tea-flavoured innovation, and food-as-medicine wellness.
SIAL Guangzhou 2026: 'First Stop for Entering the Bay Area and Going Global'
The exhibition is positioned as the preferred first stop for F&B brands to enter the Greater Bay Area and expand globally, with over 1,500 exhibitors and tens of thousands of professional buyers expected.
SIAL Guangzhou 2026: Backed by the World's Factory, Fast Becoming Asia's New Food Sourcing Hub
Following SIAL Shanghai's record-breaking results with USD 14 billion in intended transactions, SIAL Guangzhou is positioned as South China's largest international sourcing platform, featuring a dedicated Halal Food Village and International Top Buyer Programme.
SIAL Guangzhou 2026: Fast Becoming Asia's New Food Sourcing Hub
The event marks a significant expansion for SIAL's South China edition, growing to four exhibition halls while introducing a strengthened international buyer strategy targeting procurement leaders from Southeast Asia, South Asia, Japan, and South Korea.
Major F&B Trade Shows in China and Asia (2026–2027)
August 2026 – May 2027
The food and beverage exhibition circuit in China and Asia features several key events targeting different regions and buyer segments. SIAL Guangzhou (September 2026) competes closely with Food2China Expo (September 2026) in the same city, while FHC Shanghai (November 2026) serves the eastern China market. SIAL Shanghai (May 2027) remains the flagship event for the SIAL Network in China, and SIAL Paris (October 2026) is the global benchmark. Regional shows like Allfood Expo (August 2026) and Ice Cream China (September 2026) address specific product categories.
13–15 Aug 2026
Allfood Expo (Global High-End Food Exhibition)
Hangzhou, China
27th edition; focuses on global high-end food products.
Two major F&B trade shows in Guangzhou within one week: SIAL (Sep 3-5) and Food2China (Sep 10-12). Buyers can attend both.
Late 2026 – Global and Regional Shows
SIAL Paris 2026FHC Shanghai 2026
SIAL Paris in October is the global flagship; FHC Shanghai in November serves the East China market.
Mid-2027 – Shanghai Flagship
SIAL Shanghai 2027
SIAL Shanghai remains the largest SIAL event in China, with 5,000+ exhibitors.
Dates based on organiser websites and industry exhibition calendars; some 2027 dates are preliminary and subject to change.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · CNY
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
CAN
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
Primary international airport serving Guangzhou. Metro Line 3 connects to the city; transfer to Line 8 or Line 11 at Kecun or Pazhou Station for direct access to the venue. Taxi fare approx. CNY 120–160.
Approx. 40 km (25 miles)
to venue
Approx. 45–60 minutes by taxi
by car
SZX
Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport
Major international hub in the Pearl River Delta. High-speed rail from Shenzhen to Guangzhou takes about 1 hour, followed by metro to Pazhou Station.
Approx. 79–116 km (49–72 miles)
to venue
Approx. 1.5–2.5 hours by car or high-speed rail
by car
HKG
Hong Kong International Airport
Major international gateway with extensive global connections. Cross-border coach to Guangzhou takes 3–4 hours; high-speed rail from Hong Kong West Kowloon to Guangzhou South is approx. 1 hour.
Approx. 113–115 km (70–72 miles)
to venue
Approx. 3–4 hours by coach or ferry/train combination
by car
FUO
Foshan Shadi Airport
Smaller domestic airport closest to Guangzhou. Limited flights; primarily serves domestic routes. Taxi to PWTC Expo is the most direct option.
Approx. 19–20 km (12–13 miles)
to venue
Approx. 30–40 minutes by taxi
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
budget
Pazhou / Haizhu (3-star and apartment hotels near PWTC Expo)
USD 24–60 / night
Estimated from Trip.com/Agoda averages: 3-star hotels in the Pazhou Exhibition Center area average around USD 50-51 per night. Apartment-style stays near the Poly World Trade Center, such as Yicheng Holiday Apartment (from USD 22) and Guangzhou Fuying Apartment (from USD 35) offer budget-friendly options.
mid range
Pazhou Exhibition Center area / Kecun (4-star)
USD 60–120 / night
Estimated: 4-star hotels near Pazhou average around USD 63-65 per night on booking platforms; convenient for walking or one metro stop to PWTC Expo. Examples include LN Dongfang Hotel, Pazhou and Courtyard by Marriott Guangzhou Pazhou.
Estimated: 5-star Pazhou-area hotels average around USD 88-93 per night on Agoda, with show-week rates commonly USD 114-218. The Westin Pazhou from ~USD 126, Langham Place Guangzhou from ~USD 95, Shangri-La Guangzhou, and InterContinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center are top choices.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Metro
Estimated costCNY 2-9 per trip (distance-based)
Best forLine 8 or Line 11 to Pazhou Station, Exit C (direct access to PWTC Expo)
Fastest and most reliable way to reach the venue; Exit C connects directly to the exhibition center.
Bus
Estimated costCNY 2-5 per trip
Best forPazhou Bus Station routes B7, B7 Express, University Town Line 3, 229, 262, 304, 461, 564
Local buses stop at Pazhou next to the complex; slower than metro in peak traffic.
Metro from airport
Estimated costCNY 8-13 (approx. USD 1-2); about 60-75 minutes
Best forGuangzhou Baiyun Airport Line 3 (North Extension) to Tiyu Xilu, transfer to Line 3 towards Panyu Square to Kecun, then Line 8 to Pazhou
Cheapest airport-to-venue route, around 45 km.
Taxi / ride-hail from airport
Estimated costCNY 120-180 (approx. USD 17-25); about 50-60 minutes depending on traffic
Best forGuangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) to PWTC Expo, Haizhu
Tolls extra; use official taxi queue or Didi. Convenient with luggage or exhibitor samples.
Ride-hailing (Didi)
Estimated costWithin central Guangzhou typically CNY 20-60 per ride
Best forCitywide to PWTC Expo
Didi app works in English; useful for evening returns when metro is crowded during fair days.
Intercity Railway
Estimated costVaries by distance
Best forGuangzhou Donghuan Intercity Railway to Pazhou Station
Convenient for travelers coming from other cities in the Greater Bay Area.
Plan your trip
Visa & entry documents
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
Visa not required
ATA Carnet: accepted
Type
Who needs it
Fee
Processing
M (Business & Trade)
Foreign nationals intending to visit China for commercial and trade activities, such as attending trade fairs (including SIAL Guangzhou 2026), conducting market research, visiting clients, or signing contracts.
$140.00
4 working days (regular); express service available in 3 working days for an additional fee.
F (Exchange & Visit)
Foreign nationals traveling to China for non-commercial activities, including exchanges, visits, study tours, and other relevant activities.
$140.00
4 working days (regular); express service available.
L (Tourism)
Foreign nationals traveling to China for tourism.
$140.00
4 working days (regular); express service available.
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit
Nationals of 55 countries transiting through China to a third country or region.
Not yet confirmed
N/A
Nationals of 50 countries holding ordinary passports may enter China visa-free for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, exchange visits, or transit for up to 30 days. The 50 countries are: Brunei, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Australia, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Slovenia, Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, the Republic of Korea, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Malta, Estonia, Latvia, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Russia, Sweden, Canada, and the UK. This policy applies to participation in conferences and exhibitions (including SIAL Guangzhou 2026). The visa waiver for 48 of these countries is valid until December 31, 2026; for Russia, until December 31, 2027; for Brunei, no set expiry.
ATA Carnets are accepted in China for temporary imports of goods such as exhibition items, commercial samples, and professional equipment. The carnet acts as a 'passport for goods,' allowing duty- and tax-free temporary importation for up to one year. For cargo shipments, customs brokers must contact CCPIT/CCOIC for electronic data registration before import declaration. For hand-carried items, after customs validation at the airport, the holder must visit a CCPIT/CCOIC office within three days to complete data registration. China Customs maintain electronic control over ATA Carnets. As of June 1, 2026, digital eATA Carnets are being phased in, starting with EU member states, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK.
September in Guangzhou is a transitional month from summer to autumn, remaining hot and humid with high temperatures averaging 31°C (88°F) and lows around 24–25°C (75–77°F). Humidity is high at around 78%. The month averages 13 rainy days with approximately 166–187 mm of rainfall, and there is a risk of occasional typhoons bringing heavy rain, especially in early to mid-September. Rain usually comes as brief afternoon or evening showers. Pack light, breathable clothing, a raincoat or umbrella, and a light layer for air-conditioned venues.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The Poly World Trade Center Expo (PWTC) is exceptionally well-connected. Pazhou Station on Metro Lines 8 and 11 has a direct exit (Exit C) into the venue. From Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), take Metro Line 3 to Kecun, then transfer to Line 8 to Pazhou (approx. 60–75 mins); or take Line 3 to Tiyu Xilu, then Line 11 Inner Loop to Pazhou. Guangzhou East Station is reached via Line 11 or Line 3 to Line 8; Guangzhou South and Guangzhou Stations connect via Line 2 to Line 8. Pazhou Bus Station serves numerous routes including B7, 229, 262, 304, 461, and 564. The venue is within an hour's reach of major Greater Bay Area cities.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Business Greetings
A light handshake with a slight nod is the standard business greeting. Always greet the most senior person first. Exchanging business cards is customary and should be done with both hands.
Communication Style
Communication tends to be indirect; maintaining harmony and avoiding confrontation are important. Showing respect for hierarchy and seniority is fundamental in business and social settings.
Dress Code
Business attire is generally formal in professional environments, though business casual is common in many offices. Dress modestly and professionally when attending the trade show.
Dining Etiquette
Cantonese dining is communal—dishes are shared. Use chopsticks properly and do not stick them upright in rice. Tipping is not customary in most local restaurants. Do not miss local specialties like dim sum and roast goose.
Language
Cantonese is the local dialect, but Mandarin is widely understood. Learning a few basic greetings in either language is appreciated by locals.
Public Behavior
Avoid overly loud arguments in public. Respect local customs at temples and other cultural sites—dress modestly and follow photography rules.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
Book flights well in advance as September is a busy travel period. Compare prices across airlines and consider nearby airports (Shenzhen SZX, Hong Kong HKG) for potentially better fares or connections.
Visa
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter China for business purposes, typically an M (Business) visa. However, nationals of 50 countries may be eligible for visa-free entry for up to 30 days for business, tourism, or transit. Additionally, a 240-hour visa-free transit is available for nationals of 55 countries. ATA Carnets are accepted for temporary imports.
Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed
Processing: 4 working days (regular); express service available in 3 working days for an additional fee.
Visa fees vary by nationality and number of entries. The M visa requires an invitation letter from a Chinese trade partner or the trade fair organizer. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with blank visa pages. Visa-free policy for 48 countries expires December 31, 2026.
Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Check-in (recommended)
2026-09-02
Check-out (recommended)
2026-09-06
Areas to stay
Pazhou Exhibition Center area (Haizhu) walkable to PWTC Expo · Kecun / Canton Tower area (Haizhu) one to two metro stops away · Zhujiang New Town (Tianhe CBD) across the river, 15-20 min by metro or taxi · Tianhe business district more dining and nightlife, direct Line 8/3 metro connections
budget
USD 24-60 per night (estimated)
mid range
USD 60-120 per night (estimated)
premium
USD 90-220 per night (estimated)
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: From Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport: Metro Line 3 (North Extension) to Tiyu Xilu, transfer to Line 3 towards Panyu Square to Kecun, then Line 8 to Pazhou Station Exit C (CNY 8-13, approx. 60-75 min) or taxi/Didi (CNY 120-180 plus tolls, approx. 50-60 min).
Hotel → venue: Stay in Pazhou/Haizhu to walk to PWTC Expo, or use Metro Line 8/11 to Pazhou Station Exit C which connects directly to the exhibition center.
Ride-hail: Didi is the dominant ride-hailing app with English interface; central Guangzhou trips typically CNY 20-60.
Public transit: Guangzhou Metro is distance-based at CNY 2-9 per trip; buses at Pazhou Bus Station (B7, B7 Express, University Town Line 3, 229, 262, 304, 461, 564) cost CNY 2-5.
Parking: The underground parking lot of Poly World Trade Center Expo is located on the and floors, with a total of 5 entrances and exits, respectively on Zhuanhui South 3rd Road, Zhuanhui South 4th Road, and Fengpu Middle Road, providing 2,000 parking spaces.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: September
Temperature: 24–31°C (75–88°F)
Seasonality: Rainy season with average 13 rainy days and 166–187 mm rainfall; typhoon risk in early to mid-September.
Packing: Pack light, breathable clothing (shorts, t-shirts, dresses), a raincoat or umbrella, a light sweater or jacket for air-conditioned venues, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: 2026-09-04
Thursday 4 September is Day 2 with full 09:00–17:00 hours (Day 3 closes at 16:00). Exhibitor booths and Highlight Villages are fully operational after opening day, Top Buyer Programme matchmaking typically peaks mid-show, and concurrent contests (Barista Challenge, Chic & Tea) run across all three days per official FAQ.
T-21
Complete free online visitor pre-registration and save your QR confirmation — Official policy: online pre-registration is free for industry professionals; scan QR at self-service counters for your physical badge.
T-14
Apply for the SIAL Guangzhou 2026 Top Buyer Programme if you qualify — Email topbuyer@sialchina.cn or apply via https://www.sialchina.com/top-buyer-programme-gz/ for VIP lounge, matchmaking, and tiered travel support.
T-14
Confirm China visa, visa-free transit, or entry eligibility for your nationality — International professionals are welcome; verify current PRC entry rules before booking non-refundable travel.
T-12
Book hotel near Pazhou / Haizhu District with Metro Line 8 access — Primary venue access is Pazhou Station Exit C (Lines 8 and 11) directly into PWTC Expo per official travel guide.
T-10
Shortlist target exhibitors and products via the online marketplace and WeChat Mini-Program — Official exhibitor list and booth navigator are on sialchina.com and the organiser WeChat Mini-Program; no standalone event app.
T-7
Pre-schedule SIAL MATCH-MAKING / Match Me one-on-one meetings — Contact topbuyer@sialchina.cn for dedicated matchmaking assistance or use the official Match Me platform linked from the Guangzhou page.
T-3
Plan metro or taxi route to PWTC Expo and download offline maps — Venue: No. 1000 Xingang East Road, Haizhu District. B1 dining and luggage lockers available; organiser does not provide hall Wi-Fi.
T-1
Pack business or smart casual attire and meeting materials — Official dress code recommends business/smart casual; slippers, shorts, or inappropriate clothing may be denied entry.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
08:30
Arrive via Metro Line 8 or 11, Pazhou Station Exit C
PWTC Expo entrance
09:00
Walk six Highlight Villages: Organic, Chinese F&B, International F&B, International Meat, Pulses and grains, Bakery and Confectionery
Exhibition halls
11:00
Attend pre-scheduled SIAL MATCH-MAKING / Match Me one-on-one meetings
Matchmaking area
12:30
Lunch break
Venue Level B1 dining facilities
13:30
Tour Halal Food Village and international meat suppliers
Exhibition halls
15:00
Visit SIAL Innovation showcase and new product debuts
Innovation zone / event stage
16:00
Watch SIAL Cup Barista Challenge or SIAL Chic & Tea Contest
Contest area
16:45
Depart via Pazhou Metro before 17:00 hall close
Pazhou Station Exit C
Side trips
4
Canton Tower
Landmark
Recommendation: iconic Guangzhou skyline views and evening dining after show hours; not affiliated with SIAL.
~15–20 minutes by metro or taxi from Pazhou
Pearl River night cruise
Sightseeing
Recommendation: relaxed networking backdrop for colleagues; independent operator — not an official SIAL event.
~20–30 minutes from Haizhu District
Shangxiajiu traditional food street
Food and Culture
Recommendation: sample Cantonese street food and local retail context relevant to F&B buyers.
~25 minutes by metro from Pazhou area
Yide Road wholesale markets
Sourcing
Recommendation: adjacent wholesale trade ecosystem for dry goods and packaging context; verify export rules independently.
~30 minutes by metro from Pazhou
Networking spots
4
VIP Buyer Lounge
Official Programme
Access for qualified Top Buyer Programme participants (Hosted, Key, and VIP tiers) per https://www.sialchina.com/top-buyer-programme-gz/.
SIAL MATCH-MAKING meeting area
Official Programme
Organiser-run 1-on-1 business matchmaking pairing international exhibitors with pre-qualified buyers.
SIAL Elite Hour International Buyer Networking Reception
Official Event
Listed in official 2026 press programming; Hosted Buyers receive priority invitation.
On-stand exhibitor meetings
Official Programme
Top Buyer tiers require 12–18+ confirmed exhibitor meetings; schedule via buyer team and Match Me.
Budget
Costs & budget
Booth pricing details are not listed on the provided pages. Exhibitors are directed to the online exhibitor center for booth booking.
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
Hotel × 3 nightsCN¥150.00
Per diem × 3CN¥135.00
InsuranceCN¥35.00
Estimated totalCN¥320.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Cost reference
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
visitor_registration
visitor · standard
Not yet confirmed
officialAs of 2026-08-01
top_buyer_flight_subsidy
visitor · hosted_buyer
CNY 2500–4000 / per_person
officialAs of 2026-08-01
top_buyer_hotel
visitor · hosted_or_key_buyer
Not yet confirmed
officialAs of 2026-08-01
hotel_night
visitor · budget
CNY 350–480 / per_night
estimateAs of 2026-08-01
hotel_night
visitor · mid
CNY 520–780 / per_night
estimateAs of 2026-08-01
hotel_night
visitor · premium
CNY 900–1300 / per_night
estimateAs of 2026-08-01
per_diem
both · standard
CNY 200–320 / per_day
estimateAs of 2026-08-01
Item
For
Tier
Estimated range
Status
As of
visitor_registration
visitor
standard
Not yet confirmed
official
2026-08-01
top_buyer_flight_subsidy
visitor
hosted_buyer
CNY 2500–4000 / per_person
official
2026-08-01
top_buyer_hotel
visitor
hosted_or_key_buyer
Not yet confirmed
official
2026-08-01
hotel_night
visitor
budget
CNY 350–480 / per_night
estimate
2026-08-01
hotel_night
visitor
mid
CNY 520–780 / per_night
estimate
2026-08-01
hotel_night
visitor
premium
CNY 900–1300 / per_night
estimate
2026-08-01
per_diem
both
standard
CNY 200–320 / per_day
estimate
2026-08-01
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Answer based on your South China/ASEAN market fit, category alignment, budget, and travel readiness. Your visit, exhibit, or skip recommendation updates live.
QUESTION 1 OF 8
How important is South China, the Greater Bay Area, or ASEAN as a buyer or sales market for you?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You need export-ready suppliers across official sectors, value SIAL MATCH-MAKING, or want access to the 2026 Halal Food Village and six Highlight Villages without committing to a booth
Best for
Importers, distributors, retailers, foodservice buyers, and procurement leaders sourcing F&B for South China, the Greater Bay Area, and ASEAN corridors
Min. budget
$550.00
Timeline
2–4 weeks for free registration, travel booking, exhibitor shortlisting, and Match Me prep; apply Top Buyer 3+ weeks ahead if eligible
Risks
Organiser does not provide complimentary hall Wi-Fi
China entry rules vary by nationality and change frequently
Day 3 closes at 16:00, limiting afternoon sourcing
First Guangzhou edition after relocation from Shenzhen — verify exhibitor list maturity closer to show
exhibit
You have China/ASEAN distribution goals, export-ready halal or specialty lines, and budget for shell or raw space plus travel after contacting exhibit@sialchina.cn or exhibit.sialchina@sial-network.com
Best for
Export-ready F&B brands, country pavilions, and manufacturers targeting Greater Bay Area retail, e-commerce, and Southeast Asian buyer delegations
Min. budget
Not yet confirmed
Timeline
90+ days recommended for booth contract, exhibitor portal tasks, freight, staff visas, Innovation submissions, and matchmaking availability
Risks
Booth shell and raw-space pricing is not published online — budget unknown until sales quote
Relocation to PWTC Expo Guangzhou is a new venue cycle for the South edition
Hosted Top Buyers require 18+ meetings — understaffed booths underperform
No organiser-named badge lead-retrieval product confirmed for Guangzhou 2026
skip
Your buyers are exclusively outside Asia-Pacific F&B, you cannot obtain China entry, or visit/exhibit budget is unavailable until booth pricing and ROI are clarified
Best for
Non-F&B companies or teams with no Asia-Pacific pipeline who cannot justify China travel in September 2026
Min. budget
Not yet confirmed
Timeline
Not applicable
Risks
Miss organiser forecast of 1,500+ exhibitors and ~65,000 professionals at the expanded 60,000 m² Guangzhou edition
Miss launch of dedicated Halal Food Village and International Top Buyer Programme outreach
Competitors may secure South China distributors at the first PWTC Expo edition
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
1
GBA
Greater Bay Area, a megalopolis in southern China comprising Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and other cities, known for its industrial and logistics advantages.
2
ASEAN
Association of Southeast Asian Nations, a political and economic union of 10 member states in Southeast Asia.
3
PWTC Expo
Poly World Trade Center Expo, the venue for SIAL Guangzhou located at No. 1000 Xingang East Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou.
4
B2B
Business-to-business, referring to commercial transactions between businesses, rather than between a business and individual consumers.
5
HoReCa
Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering sectors, a term used in the food service industry.
6
Matchmaking
A service that facilitates 1-on-1 meetings between exhibitors and pre-qualified buyers.
