Finding suppliers in Asia: the importance of participating in trade fairs

Trade fairs are more than just networking events—they’re comprehensive marketplaces where innovation, quality, and business relationships converge. For European buyers like yourself, these exhibitions offer unparalleled opportunities to:

Why participate in a buyer’s fair in Asia?

Identify new potential suppliers

Trade fairs are always one of the most effective ways for suppliers to promote new products. This “playground” creates conditions for customers to identify, interact with suppliers and businesses.

Meet existing suppliers face-to-face

Unlike online interactions, trade fairs allow you to establish personal connections, assess products in real-time, and build trust through direct communication.

Discover latest market trends

These events often showcase the latest products, technologies, giving you a competitive edge and an overview about the industry landscape.

Negotiate directly

Trade fairs provide a unique environment for discussions, price negotiations, and potential immediate deals.

Initial supplier and product evaluation

You can gain an initial insight into a supplier’s legitimacy, production capacity, certifications, and experience through direct interactions.

How to find the right suppliers at trade fairs

Know what you are looking for

Before attending a trade fair, it sounds quite logical to determine what you want to find (product, suppliers,…). Research and create a strategic roadmap by reviewing exhibitor lists and developing a prioritized list of potential suppliers helps you focus your time and energy on the most promising connections, saving valuable resources and increasing the likelihood of finding ideal business partners.

Preparation and communication

Communication preparation is your key to making a lasting impression and gathering meaningful information. Prepare a well-defined list of questions that go beyond surface-level inquiries. Make sure to get everything in writing to avoid any misunderstandings or issues later on.

By coming equipped with professional materials like business cards and a clear communication strategy, you position yourself as a credible and serious potential business partner.

Effective supplier evaluation during the fair

Trade fairs are masterful marketing events where everything appears perfect. Yet, you can verify a supplier’s legitimacy by checking these points:

Company Background ( Industry experience, Customer portfolio,…)
Manufacturing Capabilities.
Compliance (Factory and product certification…)
Product Categories.
Price and MOQs.
Cost for Samples & Lead Time.
Quality Control Management.
Communication & Language Proficiency.

Collaborating with Sourcing Agents

Navigating the complex landscape of Asian suppliers requires expertise that a professional purchasing office can provide. Choosing the right sourcing partner is critical to your international procurement success. Begin by identifying an office with specialized knowledge in your specific industry and target markets.

Top Trade Fairs for Asian supplier discovery in 2025

Fairs in China

Chine	ISPO BEIJING	10th – 12th January
	CIFF – China International Furniture Fair	+ Phase 1: 18th – 21th March + Phase 2: 28th – 31st March
	ITES – International Industrial Manufacturing Technology and Equipment Exhibition	26th – 29th March
	CMEF – China International Medical Equipment Fair	8th – 11th April
	CANTON Fair	+ Phase 1: 15th – 19th April + Phase 2: 23rd – 27th April + Phase 3: 1st – 5th May
	Hotelex Shanghai	30th April – 2nd May
	CICP – China International Consumer Products Expo	8th – 11th April
	HOFEX	14th – 16th May
	SIAL Shanghai	19th – 21st May

Fairs in Vietnam

Vietnam	VIFA – Vietnam International Furniture and Home Accessories Fair	5th – 8th March
	HAWA	5th – th March
	SaigonTex – Vietnam Saigon Textile & Garment Industry Expo	9th – 12th April
	Global Sources Electronics	24th – th April
	VIMF – Vietnam Industrial & Manufacturing Fair	+ Northern Chapter: 16th – 18th April

Fairs in Indonesia

Indonesia	Indonesia International Furniture Expo	6th – 9th March
	TEI – Trade Expo Indonesia	October

Fairs in Thailand

Thailand	YUASA Grand Fair	5th – 7th February
	ASEAN HVAC & Cleanroom Industry Expo	5th – 7th March
	VIV Asia	12th- 14th March
	MTA Asia	14th – 17th May
	SUBCON	14th – 17th May
	THAIFEX	27th- 31st May
	NEPCON	18th- 21st June
	Manufacturing Expo	18th- 21st June

Conclusion

Trade fairs are not just events—they’re strategic platforms for finding the right suppliers, understanding market dynamics, and driving your company’s procurement success. By following these steps and maintaining a proactive approach, you can transform these exhibitions into powerful tools for business growth.

👉 Are you participating in a trade fair in Asia soon? Contact us to prepare your supplier meetings.