Thousands of business visitors explored new products, sourcing opportunities and potential partnerships as the 10th China HomeLife and Machinex Trade Fair 2026 concluded at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Friday, 25th September.
The three-day exhibition brought together more than 500 verified Chinese exhibitors showcasing over 10,000 products across sectors including machinery, energy, household and gifts, home appliances, building materials, textiles and garments, appliances and electronics. The fair provided African importers, wholesalers, buyers and entrepreneurs with opportunities to engage directly with Chinese manufacturers, compare products and explore new business relationships.
Binu Pillai, Chief Operating Officer of Meorient International Exhibition, the organisers of China HomeLife South Africa, said the first two days recorded a 12% increase in visitors compared with the previous year. He said this year’s exhibition placed greater emphasis on VIP buyers and business matchmaking, while geopolitical uncertainty and supply-chain disruptions have also influenced how businesses approach sourcing.
“Over the years, the same suppliers have worked with the same buyers. However, now raw materials are often unavailable or expensive,” Pillai said, noting that these challenges have contributed to buyers diversifying their supplier networks. Among the exhibitors was Hanyu Machinery, a company specialising in machinery used for sanitary tanks, cosmetics, wine and other beverage fermentation.
Brian Wu, Sales Representative at Hanyu Machinery, said this was the company’s first time exhibiting at China HomeLife South Africa. He said several visitors expressed interest after learning about the applications of the company’s machinery. The exhibition also attracted returning buyers such as Ganesh and Vinutha Pillai, owners of two Jack’s Build and Trade stores in Johannesburg. Having attended the fair for three years, they use the exhibition to identify new products that could be introduced to the local market.
They highlighted sanitaryware, plumbing equipment, taps and basins among the products that attracted their attention this year. For the business owners, the exhibition also provides an opportunity to purchase products in bulk, compare prices with local suppliers and potentially offer more affordable products to their customers.
China HomeLife South Africa continues to provide a platform for businesses to explore sourcing opportunities, partnerships and trade between China and Africa, with the next exhibition scheduled for 2027.
