The 138th Canton Fair once again proved why it remains one of the world’s most influential sourcing platforms. Bringing together global buyers, manufacturers, and design professionals, the event showcased how sustainability, technology, and functionality continue to shape the future of product development.
For The ODM Group, attending this year’s fair was a valuable opportunity to explore new materials, discover sustainable and smart product trends, and gain insight into market directions that align with our mission to connect creativity, design, and manufacturing across Asia. Explore our key highlights below.
Need to Skim? Main Takeaways:
- Recycled, biodegradable, and traceable materials dominated the exhibition, signaling that eco-conscious sourcing is now a global standard.
- Factories are increasingly adopting 3D simulation and AI-assisted modeling to shorten development timelines and enhance precision.
- Consumers seek adaptable products that combine performance, aesthetics, and convenience — from tech-integrated gadgets to modular homeware.
- Buyers are choosing long-term supplier relationships built on transparency and reliability.
- With end-to-end capabilities, ODM helps brands transform fair-inspired ideas into tangible, market-ready merchandise.
Table of Contents
Some highlights of the 138th Canton Fair
As one of the world’s most influential trade exhibitions, the 138th Canton Fair once again reaffirmed its role as a bridge between international buyers, Asian manufacturers, and the future of product innovation.
For more than six decades, the Canton Fair has been the benchmark for sourcing and trade in Asia, offering access to thousands of verified suppliers and millions of products across every consumer and industrial category.
In 2025, the show brought together not only importers and distributors, but also brand managers, product developers, and creative agencies — all looking to discover materials, suppliers, and technologies that shape tomorrow’s product landscape.
Event structure and focus areas
- Phase 1 (October 15–19): Consumer Electronics and Information Products, Electrical Appliances, Lighting Equipment, Hardware, and Tools.
- Phase 2 (October 23–27): Ceramics, Household Items, Gifts & Premiums, Home Decorations, Building Materials, Furniture, and Festival Products.
- Phase 3 (October 31–November 4): Textiles, Apparel, Footwear, Bags, Food, Sports and Leisure, Medical Devices, Pet Products, Toiletries, Stationery, Baby & Maternity, and Health Products.
Who attends:
Importers, retail chains, procurement specialists, marketing and design agencies, and business leaders searching for products that align with the world’s evolving standards of innovation, functionality, and responsibility.
Product highlights at 138th Canton fair phase 3
Phase 3 of the 138th Canton Fair spotlighted breakthrough innovations in fashion, lifestyle, and wellness. From sustainable materials to smart, multifunctional designs, the exhibition reflected how creativity and technology are shaping the next generation of consumer products and brand experiences.
What’s driving brand growth at this year’s Canton Fair
The 138th Canton Fair 2025 highlighted how design, sustainability, and technology are converging to shape the future of global sourcing. Key trends include:
- Sustainability and eco-development: Sustainability is now at the heart of product creation. Exhibitors showcased recycled fabrics, biodegradable packaging, and cork leather, signaling a major shift toward circular design and genuine ESG commitment.
- Smart design and digital transformation: AI modeling, 3D visualization, and virtual sampling are speeding up production while cutting waste. Products like NFC-enabled packaging and connected devices blend technology with storytelling.
- Functionality meets lifestyle: Consumers seek products that are versatile, durable, and practical. Solar-powered apparel and collapsible homeware show how function and style merge in modern design.
- Long-term partnerships: Trade is moving toward trust-based collaboration. Buyers now favor reliable, transparent suppliers offering consistent quality and innovation.
How ODM transforms trade fair inspiration into reality
Our approach: From concept to completion
ODM’s workflow follows a proven end-to-end structure that ensures quality, efficiency, and alignment with brand goals:
- Market Insight & Brainstorming – Identifying opportunities inspired by global trade fairs and market trends.
- Design & Product Development – Turning ideas into visual concepts, technical drawings, and 3D models.
- Prototyping & Sampling – Building real samples for approval and quality testing.
- Mass Production – Managing supplier selection, production timelines, and material compliance.
- Quality Control & Inspection – Ensuring international testing and certification standards are met.
- Logistics & Delivery – Coordinating packing, shipping, and documentation to ensure smooth global delivery.
Comprehensive service coverage
- Branded Merchandise & Corporate Gifts – From collectible sports items to premium drinkware, ODM develops high-impact branded merchandise for international campaigns.
- POS Display & Packaging Solutions – Combining structure, design, and material innovation to maximize brand visibility in retail environments.
- Sourcing & Production Management – ODM acts as a reliable buying office for brands seeking efficient cross-border manufacturing in Asia.
- Product Engineering & Quality Assurance – Integrating durability, compliance, and user experience from the earliest stages.
Explore the latest innovations in tech-driven products
Tech gifts aren’t merely trendy items – they provide numerous advantages that make them excellent choices for employee appreciation. These gifts can boost productivity and enhance personal convenience, positively impacting various facets of an employee’s life.
Little bags or boxes of goodies people receive after attending a program or a company gathering are called “swag” bags, an acronym for “Stuff We All Get.” These are usually composed of promotional products that will ensure the brand will remain on top of its target market’s mind.
Blending elegance with functionality, today’s tech gifts for women go beyond gadgets — they’re lifestyle statements. From smart accessories to wellness devices, these innovations combine style, convenience, and creativity, offering brands new ways to design meaningful, modern gifts that truly connect with their audience.
As consumers become more conscious of sustainability, eco-friendly tech gifts are taking center stage. From recycled-material earbuds and solar-powered chargers to biodegradable phone accessories, these products prove that innovation and responsibility can go hand in hand. They’re perfect for brands aiming to impress tech-savvy audiences while promoting a greener message.
Final thoughts
The 138th Canton Fair reinforced one clear message, the future of product development lies in sustainability, technology, and collaboration. As markets evolve, brands that embrace these values will lead the way in connecting creative design with real consumer needs.
In Canton Fair Phase 3, the focus shifted toward consumer goods, home products, and lifestyle items, reflecting how practical design and sustainable materials are redefining everyday essentials. For The ODM Group, this phase provided valuable opportunities to explore emerging trends, connect with partners, and transform ideas into functional, eco-conscious products that align with global brand goals.
Looking ahead: The 139th Canton Fair 2026
The 139th Canton Fair is scheduled to open on April 15th, 2026, once again in Guangzhou — promising even more opportunities for global cooperation.
Onsite Exhibition Schedule:
- Phase 1: April 15–19, 2026
- Phase 2: April 23–27, 2026
- Phase 3: May 1–5, 2026
Booth Dismantling & Setup: April 20–22 and April 28–30, 2026
ODM looks forward to continuing its participation — connecting with partners, exploring material breakthroughs, and discovering new possibilities that will define the next era of branded merchandise and display design.
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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What makes the Canton Fair important for global sourcing?
The Canton Fair serves as one of the largest and longest-running trade events in the world. It connects international buyers with verified Asian manufacturers across industries, offering unmatched access to new products, technologies, and materials.
Which industries benefit most from the fair?
The fair spans over three phases, covering electronics, homeware, gifts, fashion, textiles, health, and lifestyle products. It’s particularly valuable for retailers, FMCG brands, and creative marketing agencies seeking custom or OEM manufacturing partners.
What were the top trends at the 138th edition?
Key highlights included the shift toward sustainable materials, AI-driven product design, and multifunctional lifestyle innovations that blend utility with modern aesthetics.
How does ODM apply these trends in its projects?
ODM integrates the same principles showcased at the fair — sustainability, technology, and functionality — into its global manufacturing and design projects. Examples include rPET bags, biodegradable packaging, NFC-enabled merchandise, and premium barware for major beverage and sports brands.
When and where will the next Canton Fair 2026 take place?
The 139th Canton Fair will return to Guangzhou in spring 2026, continuing its legacy as a global hub for trade and product innovation. The onsite exhibition will run in three phases from April 15 to May 5, 2026.
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Canton Fair 2011- 109th China Import and Export Fair
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