Vienna hosts first Shanghai Fair in western Europe

From robot hands and drones to Chinese candy: 130 Shanghai-based manufacturers and suppliers came to the Austrian capital to showcase a variety of products. 

Not only Austrian businessmen but also guests from other European countries were among the 2,000 accredited companies interested in business opportunities in China.

During a festive inauguration on Monday, which included classical music performances, representatives from the Austrian Economic Chamber and the Shanghai Fair Committee highlighted the importance of in-person B2B encounters between China and Europe.

Besides consumer goods, the fair had a strong focus on electronics. Fu Wengang, Deputy Director of the Shanghai Fair Committee, told CGTN he hopes that, beyond new energy and medical devices, "Shanghai's chemicals and service industries can engage in extensive exchanges with Viennese enterprises."

Shanghai is China's leading economic, financial, trade and logistics center and a global trade hub. At the Shanghai Fair, manufacturers and suppliers presented their diverse range of products and services from industry, technology, consumer goods and innovative services.

The fair, which continues on Tuesday, is aimed at Austrian companies across all sectors, whether sole traders, small or medium-sized enterprises or large corporations, who want to optimise their supply chains and tap into new procurement opportunities.

Vienna's central location in Europe offered a perfect opportunity for personal discussions, industry exchanges and numerous networking opportunities. 

Previously, most Shanghai Fairs took place in Asian countries or emerging markets. The 22nd edition in the Austrian Capital marked the first Shanghai Fair in western Europe.

In 2024, bilateral trade between Austria and China grew to about $12.25 billion. Key Austrian exports include machinery and vehicles, while imports from China are led by electronics.

The Shanghai Fair is intended to be an important step towards deepening Austrian-Chinese economic relations and giving both sides the opportunity to strengthen their competitiveness in the global market in the long term.