The good news? Registering for the Global Sources Hong Kong Shows is simple, straightforward, and free. There's no admission fee if you sign up in advance, and the whole process can be completed online in just a few minutes. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned buyer returning for another edition, getting your registration locked in early is one of the smartest things you can do before your sourcing trip.

Here's everything you need to know about registering, what to expect, and how to get the most out of the perks that come with early sign-up.

Who Can Register for the Hong Kong Show?

The Global Sources Hong Kong Shows are a trade-only event, meaning they're open to verified business buyers and industry professionals — not general consumers. Only attendees 18 and older are admitted, and you'll need to demonstrate your trade status to gain entry.

Attendees typically include importers, wholesalers, retailers, e-commerce sellers, sourcing managers, brand owners, and product development professionals. If you operate a business that buys or sells physical products, you almost certainly qualify.

To verify your trade status at the venue, you'll need to bring three copies of your business card. Having these ready before you arrive makes check-in smooth and fast.

Step-by-Step: How to Register

Step 1 — Visit the Registration Page

Head to the Global Sources Hong Kong Shows homepage and look for the registration button. The site offers registration for each phase of the show separately, so you can sign up for one, two, or all three phases depending on your sourcing needs.

Take a moment to review the show dates and confirm which phases align with your product categories. Phase 1 covers Consumer Electronics, Phase 2 focuses on Mobile Electronics, Smart Home, Security, and Appliances, and Phase 3 is dedicated to Sports, Outdoor, and Lifestyle products.

Step 2 — Fill In Your Business Information

You'll need a business email address and basic company information to complete your registration. This typically includes your name, job title, company name, country, and a brief description of your purchasing role or product category interest.

Be accurate and professional when filling in this information. The details you provide are used to match you with relevant suppliers through the show's business matching service, so the more clearly you describe your sourcing focus, the better your experience will be.

Step 3 — Select Your Shows and Submit

Choose the show phase or phases you'd like to attend, review the terms and conditions, and submit your registration. The process is designed to be quick — most buyers complete it in under five minutes.

Step 4 — Save Your E-Badge

Once your registration is confirmed, you'll receive an e-badge. Save this to your phone or print it out before you travel. Bringing your e-badge to the show lets you skip the standard entry line and move straight to the show floor. This is a genuinely useful time-saver, especially on the opening days when foot traffic is highest.

Registration Is Free — But Here's the Catch

There's no admission fee for buyers who register in advance. However, walk-in access without prior registration may result in delays or limited entry, depending on the show's protocols at the time. Register early to guarantee your free admission and access to all pre-show benefits.

Also keep in mind that while buyer entry is free, your overall trip budget needs to account for flights, accommodation near AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong, daily meals and local transport, and any sample shipping costs you incur. These expenses vary significantly depending on your origin, but travel from the U.S. typically involves flights ranging from around $500 to $2,000 and accommodation in the $100 to $300 per night range.

Extra Benefits for New Overseas Buyers

If you're attending the Global Sources Hong Kong Shows for the first time as an overseas buyer, you may be eligible for additional perks that go beyond free admission. Registered overseas buyers can access a customized business matching service with tailored supplier recommendations based on their specific sourcing needs, and pre-arranged private meetings both on-site during the show and online throughout the year.

New buyers may also be eligible for a hotel cash incentive of up to HKD 2,000 — approximately USD 256 — to help offset accommodation costs. This is a meaningful benefit for buyers making the trip from North America, Europe, or other long-haul destinations.

To access these benefits, make sure you register as an overseas buyer and complete your profile fully. The show uses this information to customize your experience and connect you with the most relevant suppliers before the event begins.

Registering for the MATCH Business Matching Service

One of the most valuable things you can do alongside your show registration is sign up for MATCH — Global Sources' free, customized business matching service. This program is designed to connect buyers with verified suppliers that fit their specific sourcing requirements, going beyond what you'd find by simply walking the floor.

Through MATCH, you can receive tailored supplier recommendations, arrange pre-scheduled private meetings for your show days, and maintain supplier connections online throughout the year — not just during the show window. For buyers with specific product requirements or tight schedules, having a curated list of appointments before you arrive is a significant advantage.

To access MATCH, complete your buyer profile with as much detail as possible about your sourcing categories, order volumes, and product requirements. The more specific you are, the better the matching results.

What to Do After You Register

Registration is the first step, but getting the most out of the show requires a bit more preparation before you travel.

Start by reviewing the show's online product and supplier directories, which are available to registered buyers before the event. This lets you identify suppliers and products you want to prioritize on the floor. Build a shortlist of booths to visit and note their locations so you can plan efficient routes through the exhibition halls.

Prepare your business cards — bring plenty, since three copies are required at registration desks and you'll hand them out throughout your show days. Have a clear picture of your sourcing goals: what products you're looking for, what your target price ranges are, what certifications matter for your market, and what your ideal MOQ looks like.

If you're attending your first show, consider booking early morning time on the first day to orient yourself in the venue before the floor gets busy. The opening hours are often the best time to have focused, one-on-one conversations with suppliers who aren't yet managing crowds.

Show Dates to Know

The Global Sources Hong Kong Shows are held twice a year. The spring edition runs in April and the fall edition runs in October, both at AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong. Each edition includes all three phases running across staggered weeks — typically spanning from early to late in the month, with each phase running for four days.

Checking the current official dates on the Global Sources Hong Kong Shows website before booking your travel ensures you have the most accurate schedule. Dates are typically announced well in advance, giving buyers plenty of time to plan travel logistics.

Final Thoughts

Registering for the Global Sources Hong Kong Shows takes just a few minutes and costs nothing. The harder part — and the more rewarding part — is showing up prepared to make the most of your time on the floor. Lock in your free registration early, take advantage of the MATCH business matching program, and come to the show with a clear plan for what you want to source.

The suppliers, the products, and the market intelligence are all there waiting. All you have to do is register and show up.

How to Register for the Hong Kong Trade Show — A Step-by-Step Guide

Here's everything you need to know about registering, what to expect, and how to get the most out of the perks that come with early sign-up.