Why Trust This Article?
- • Author: Hesham Al-Daaja (based in China since 2019)
- • Last updated: Apr 23, 2026
- • Based on direct field experience with Arab travelers and buyers
Phase 3: A Completely Different Fair Again
I'm Hesham Al-Daaja from Jordan, based in China since 2019. Phase 3 is the closing chapter of Canton Fair and arguably the most diverse. After machinery in Phase 1 and consumer goods in Phase 2, Phase 3 brings an entirely different world: textiles, garments, footwear, bags, food, and medicine. This is the phase for clothing importers, food distributors, and anyone who wants to diversify beyond electronics and home goods.
Quick Answer
Phase 3 (May 1-5, 2026) focuses on textiles, garments, footwear, and food — the best opportunities for Arab markets are abayas and modest fashion, children's clothing, and sports shoes at factory prices. It coincides with China's Labour Day holiday, so lock in supplier follow-ups before you leave the floor.
Hall Map for Phase 3
Key Halls – Phase 3
- Hall 14.1 & 15.1: Raw textiles — fabrics, yarn, lace, embroidery. Essential for clothing manufacturers and fashion designers.
- Hall 16.1 & 17.1: Ready-to-wear garments — men's, women's, and children's. Large volume at factory prices.
- Hall 18.1: Underwear, sportswear, and activewear — strong demand in Gulf markets.
- Hall 19.1 & 20.1: Footwear — leather shoes, sports shoes, accessories. China is the world's largest footwear producer.
- Hall 21.1: Bags, leather goods, and travel accessories.
- Hall 22.1–24.1: Food, beverages, herbal medicine, and pharmaceutical products.
What to Source for Arab Markets in Phase 3
- Modest fashion & abayas: Growing demand in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Kuwait. Many Chinese manufacturers have started dedicated lines for the Gulf market.
- Children's clothing: Large market with good margins. Verify Oeko-Tex safety certifications.
- Sports shoes & trainers: Widely popular factory versions at competitive prices — good for retailers.
- Spices & herbal products: Some Chinese-origin spices are in demand in Arab restaurants.
- Health supplements & herbal extracts: Growing health market across the Gulf.
5-Day Strategy for Phase 3
- Day 1 (May 1): Textile halls. If you have a clothing factory or are sourcing fabric, this is your most important day.
- Day 2: Ready-to-wear — men's and women's. Look for suppliers who accept custom/private label orders.
- Day 3: Footwear and bags. Compare 5–10 suppliers before negotiating.
- Day 4: Food and supplements. Verify halal certifications if importing to Muslim countries.
- Day 5: Return to shortlisted suppliers, finalise negotiations, collect samples.
My Services During Phase 3
I'm based in Guangzhou and can help you with:
- Fair companion with Arabic-Chinese translation for all negotiations
- Private driver between your hotel and the fair: from ¥600/day
- Supplier verification and factory visits after the fair
Message me now: Message me on WhatsApp
