CBD Guangzhou 2026 reports 33.4% rise in overseas visitors

The four-day exhibition welcomed more than 144,000 professionals from 146 countries and regions, reinforcing its role as an international platform for the building decoration industry.

CBD Guangzhou 2026 welcomed more than 144,000 professional visitors to the Canton Fair Complex

The 28th China (Guangzhou) International Building Decoration Fair (CBD Guangzhou 2026) concluded on 11 Jul, attracting 144,370 professional visitors from 146 countries and regions.

Among them were 11,473 overseas visitors, representing a 33.4% increase compared with the previous edition. The organisers said the figures reflect the exhibition’s growing role as an international platform connecting China’s building decoration industry with global markets.

More than a trade exhibition, CBD Guangzhou brings together architects, designers, developers, contractors, distributors, manufacturers and real estate professionals to source products, exchange ideas and build business partnerships.

Exhibition spans the full supply chain

Interior furnishing solutions on display at CBD Guangzhou 2026

Reflecting changes across the industry, this year’s exhibition was organised around three integrated ecosystems: Interior, Exterior and MaTech. Together, they covered the building decoration supply chain, from interior solutions and building envelope systems to decorative materials, smart technologies and intelligent manufacturing.

The organisers also continued their market-focused strategy through six professional channels: dealers, international trade, designers, interior contractors, commercial projects and new media, helping exhibitors connect with targeted business audiences.

Decorative materials featured within the MaTech exhibition area

A key feature of the 2026 edition was the expansion of the Bath and Sanitary Area, developed in partnership with the China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals and Chemicals Importers and Exporters (CCCMC). The collaboration attracted more export-oriented manufacturers and strengthened the exhibition’s position as a sourcing platform for ceramic surfaces, sanitary ware and residential renovation products.

International programme expands

The World Connect Forum brought together international industry professionals to discuss design trends and export opportunities

Internationalisation remained a central theme throughout the event.

Building on the CBD World-Connect programme, the organisers expanded overseas buyer recruitment, international communications and media partnerships to strengthen links between Chinese manufacturers and global markets.

More than 70 conferences, forums and special events were held during the exhibition, providing opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing and business development.

Among the new initiatives were the World Connect Lounge and World Connect Forum, organised by CBD Guangzhou and developed by Edimotion. The programme brought together industry experts to discuss global design trends, export opportunities and developments in international markets. Topics included urban regeneration, residential renovation, ageing-friendly housing, sustainability, artificial intelligence, smart technologies and international trade.

Looking ahead to the next edition

Machinery and intelligent manufacturing technologies on display in the MaTech exhibition area

The organisers said they will continue expanding the CBD World-Connect programme and introduce further initiatives to support exhibitors’ international growth and attract more overseas buyers.

The next edition of CBD Guangzhou will be held from 8 to 11 Jul 2027 at the Canton Fair Complex in Guangzhou.

All images courtesy of CBD Guangzhou.