The China Expo Forum for International Cooperation 2026 opens in Wuhan, central China's Hubei province, Jan. 22, 2026. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
The China Expo Forum for International Cooperation 2026 (CEFCO 2026) opened in Wuhan, central China's Hubei province, on Wednesday, bringing together exhibition institutions, business leaders and industry experts from more than 20 countries and regions to discuss the future of the global exhibition and event industry.
Held under the theme "An Era of Transformations: Stronger Links, Smart Future," the forum focuses on the digital, green and international transformation of the global exhibition sector. Participants include representatives from China, the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, South Korea, India and Chile.
Li Qingshuang, vice chairwoman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), said the exhibition industry serves as a vital platform for steering industrial development, promoting technological innovation, facilitating trade cooperation and enhancing people-to-people exchanges.
Citing the recommendations for the 15th Five-Year Plan, Li noted that China will accelerate the development of strategic emerging industries such as new energy, new materials, aviation and aerospace, the low-altitude economy, quantum technology, biomanufacturing and embodied AI.
"These sectors will not only drive China's industrial upgrading but also create new opportunities and broader innovation space for the global exhibition industry," she said.
Sheng Yuechun, a member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China's Hubei Provincial Committee, described the exhibition industry as an important bridge for economic and cultural exchange, noting its strong multiplier effect in driving growth across related sectors.
He highlighted Wuhan's growing role as a major exhibition hub and its improving infrastructure.
"Wuhan boasts four large professional exhibition venues with a combined area of 540,000 square meters, positioning the city as one of China's major exhibition hubs," said Sheng. "The city looks forward to closer cooperation with CCPIT, international exhibition organizations and business associations to host more high-level events."
International industry leaders also spoke highly of China's role in the global exhibition market.
Panittha Buri, president of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), said China has become one of the most important markets for the global exhibition sector and a key location for UFI's flagship events.
She noted that the rise of China's exhibition industry has also elevated the influence of CEFCO worldwide.
"This forum presents a key opportunity for us to meet once a year to network with new people, reconnect with old friends and learn about the latest trends and ideas impacting exhibitions both in China and around the world," she said.
Marsha Flanagan, president and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), said China is not only a critical market but also a global leader in shaping the future of the industry.
She emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation in driving sustainable growth.
"CEFCO shows what is possible when we work across borders, industries and perspectives to shape the future of exhibitions and events," Flanagan said.
Vincent Polito, CEO of the Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO), said China's exhibition industry stands out for its scale, pace of development, deep industrial ecosystems and strong alignment between government and industry.
He noted that the sector is becoming increasingly specialized, international and integrated with global markets. "We are here as partners — ready to listen, to exchange ideas and to explore practical ways to collaborate," Polito said.
Leonie Ashford, a board member of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), said international exhibitions and conferences play a vital role in connecting the world and promoting socioeconomic development.
She added that such events also help enhance a city's global image and influence. "Through exhibitions, we can connect ideas, opportunities and talent and build bridges across the world," Ashford said.
Representatives sign a joint agreement to deepen international cooperation in the exhibition and event industry at the China Expo Forum for International Cooperation 2026 in Wuhan, central China's Hubei province, Jan. 22, 2026. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
During the forum, the CCPIT signed a joint agreement with UFI, IAEE, SISO and ICCA to deepen international cooperation in the exhibition and event industry, as well as a memorandum with the Singapore Tourism Board on bilateral exhibition cooperation. Several additional cooperation agreements were also concluded.
The forum features two plenary sessions with keynote speeches from heads of international organizations, senior executives of leading exhibition companies and economists.
Six parallel sessions cover topics including cross-industry integration, digital transformation and global engagement, as well as cooperation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Founded by the CCPIT in 2005, CEFCO has been held for 21 consecutive editions. This year's forum is jointly organized by the CCPIT, UFI, IAEE, SISO and ICCA.
