Trade shows are indispensable marketing tools in import and export business. More often, people think that attending these shows can be very costly. But the benefits that they deliver outweigh the expenses that attending entails. And if you are in the China import trade, it is highly recommended to attend trade fairs particularly those held in China.

There, you will have the opportunity to meet many prospective suppliers, manufacturers, agents, brokers, business partners and of course potential customers. You will also have a sufficient amount of exposure for your business, products and services. Since everybody is attending the trade fair, you will have the opportunity to assess yours and your competitors’ position in the market.

These are just a few of the many advantages that attending trade show provides. Once you’ve decided to go, your next move should be finding out the top shows to attend. As a rule of the thumb, attend those fairs that will be beneficial to your China import business rather then touristy ones for you to buy knick knacks at.

Here is a list of top trade shows in China:

• Canton Fair

This is probably the largest and one of the most successful fairs in the world. It’s held annually since 1957 between April and October in Guangzhou, China. This year, the 108th Canton Fair will be held on October 15 to 19 (Phase 1); October 23 to 27 (Phase 2); and October 31 to November 4 (Phase 3).

For more information, you may visit its official website at: cantonfair.net

• World Expo

The World Expo is widely known as the largest exposition on the globe. It is also the most highly priced exposition in the history of the world trade shows. The World Expo Shanghai China 2010 started in May and will end by October 31. More than 50 international organizations in 190 countries will be present.

For more details, you may visit:

biztradeshows.com/trade-events/worldexpo-shanghai-china.html

• Shanghai International Construction Material & Indoor Decoration Exhibition

This year’s SICMIDE was held from August 17 to 20 at Shanghai New International Expo Center. The event featured building construction materials, cultural and public facilities, homes and office buildings, related equipment, building techniques, tools and software.

For more information, you may visit:

biztradeshows.com/trade-events/shanghai-construction-decoration.html

• China International Furniture Fair (CIFF)

Launched in 1993, CIFF is one of the premier furniture exhibitions on earth. With its 17 years of continuous excellence, this year’s fair will be participated by more than 500 exhibitors from 20 countries. This is designed exclusively to showcase the furniture industry in China.

Visit http://biztradeshows.com/trade-events/china-international-furniture-fair.html if you have any questions and want to know more about the event.