Shanghai Eastern Hub IBCZ joins AWE 2026 as new venue

The Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone (IBCZ) will, for the first time, host a dedicated exhibition zone for the 2026 Appliance and Electronics World Expo (AWE), which will be held in Shanghai from March 12 to 15.

Covering a total exhibition area of 170,000 square meters and bringing together 1,200 exhibitors, AWE 2026 adopts a dual-venue format for this year's event.

·Shanghai New International Expo Centre: 140,000-sq m exhibition area for smart living scenarios.

·The IBCZ: 30,000-sq m exhibition area showcasing cutting-edge technological achievements.

Shanghai Eastern Hub IBCZ

Thanks to its strategic proximity to Pudong International Airport, a mere 15-minute journey, the IBCZ offers a seamless "fly-in, exhibition-ready" experience for global visitors, while allowing international exhibits to enter and exit the zone with minimal logistical friction.

The zone introduces a groundbreaking framework for personnel mobility. Invited overseas personnel may enter the zone without a Chinese visa and stay for up to 30 days, with the option to apply for an extension, and domestic personnel may enter and exit with valid passes. Multilingual services, one-stop departure procedures, and international payment services are also available within the zone.

The zone has optimized its logistics for direct and rapid operations. Bonded goods may move freely within the zone in accordance with regulations, and infrastructure materials, equipment, and instruments may qualify for tax exemptions or refunds as provided. Supporting materials may undergo checkpoint registration for fast-track customs clearance, helping reduce operating costs for enterprises.

Under the theme "Smart AI, Smarter Future", AWE 2026 will showcase a wide range of practical and forward-looking technologies, including:

·Humanoid robots designed to assist with household tasks

·Interactive companion devices capable of recognizing emotions and engaging in natural communication

·AI-powered smart glasses that integrate physical and digital experiences

Leading companies such as Haier, Huawei, AgiBot and Xreal will participate, representing the full industrial chain from intelligent terminal chips and sensors to AI large models. In addition to product exhibitions, the expo will host procurement matchmaking sessions and industry exchange activities, further strengthening its role as a platform for cross-sector cooperation and industrial upgrade.