Thirty years of CIPS: matchmaking and conferences in focus

The China International Pet Show (CIPS) celebrates its 30th edition this year. Since its launch in 1997, the show has become one of the pet industry's major international sourcing events. It will take place from 12 to 15 November 2026 at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou, its permanent home since last year. Organiser China Great Wall International Exhibition expects more than 1,400 exhibitors and over 80,000 trade visitors from more than 120 countries and regions across 120,000 m². More than 80 per cent of exhibitors combine design, R&D and manufacturing, according to the organiser.

New this year is a B2B matchmaking programme: buyers can submit their sourcing requirements in advance and are matched with suitable exhibitors for 30-minute one-to-one meetings at the show. Delegations organised with industry associations will travel from the UK, Thailand, Russia and Vietnam.

More than 30 conferences, competitions and other events will run alongside the exhibition. The second CIPS International Pet Industry Convention (CIPIC) will address supply chain resilience, changing consumer behaviour, artificial intelligence and sustainability, while the third Aquatic Industry Convention is organised together with Ornamental Fish International (OFI). The revised CIPS Innovation Award will place greater weight on technical development, practical application and commercial potential. Now in its fourth year, the 'Green Paw Prints, Love for Earth' sustainability initiative will once again recognise companies as 'Green Pioneers'.

The organiser is also planning a series of activities to mark the anniversary. Details are available at en.cipscom.com.