Ahead of the 139th Canton Fair set to open on April 15, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has rolled out a detailed package of services to streamline the arrival and stay of foreign business travelers.
At the heart of this initiative are dedicated “one-stop” service hubs for international visitors located at the International arrival areas of Terminals 2 and 3. Operating 24/7, these centers integrate a wide range of functions, including payment assistance, telecom services, transport booking, tourism advice, exhibition support and business matchmaking, into a single counter. The staff are supported by smart translation devices capable of real-time interpretation in more than 140 languages.
Rapid connectivity upon landing
The service centers and airport commercial outlets offer fast-track SIM card registration and activation, enabling international visitors to get connected immediately upon landing. They provide a range of options, including high-data options tailored for business communication and international calls. Staff at the centers can also assist visitors with installing essential apps for messaging, mobile payments, and translation, ensuring a seamless stay and efficient business experience.
Seamless ground transport
To cut transit time between the airport and the fair venue, dedicated point-to-point transfer services have been launched. These include sedan and multi-passenger vehicle options with fixed unit price and professional drivers providing direct transportation to the exhibition complex.
In addition, visitors can purchase transport cards at the airport service centers. Options include reloadable cards valid for metro and bus systems nationwide, as well as short-term unlimited travel passes designed for visitors, enabling immediate onward travel without additional ticketing.
Assisted arrivals and premium options
A newly launched meet-and-assist product offers on-arrival support for a fee. The service includes staff greeting visitors at baggage claim, guided escort to a designated pick-up area or parking zone, and complimentary refreshments. Additional services can be included, such as lounge access, hotel reservations and chauffeur-driven city transfers. Advance booking is required, typically at least two hours prior to arrival.
Accommodation and on-site services
Airport-affiliated hotels have introduced coordinated packages for the fair period. These include:
1. Complimentary shuttle buses linking hotels, terminals and the Canton Fair venue;
2. Discounted room rates across different hotel categories;
3. Dining promotions in on-site restaurants;
4. Added services such as breakfast packages, fast-track boarding assistance or lounge access for extended stays.
A transit-focused airside hotel inside Terminal 3 offers short-stay rooms for passengers with tight schedules, allowing direct access from the terminal without exiting the airport.
Enhanced lounge access
Premium lounge services have also been upgraded with ad hoc benefits for eligible fair participants. These include extended usage time beyond standard limits and discount vouchers for future lounge access. Services typically cover check-in assistance, rest areas and complimentary refreshments in both domestic and international departure zones.
Reporter: Zeng Xiangxing
Photo: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
