A Grand Return to the Heart of Innovation
After a six-year hiatus, IAAPA Expo Asia 2025 officially returned to Shanghai, invigorating the global attractions industry. Hosted at the renowned Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC) from June 30 to July 3, 2025, this premier trade event once again positioned Shanghai as a vibrant hub for amusement park operators, entertainment tech innovators, ride manufacturers, and industry participants across Asia-Pacific and beyond.
Under the rallying theme “Find Possible”, the Expo attracted over 7,000 verified attendees—a 40% surge compared to the previous year—with more than 350 exhibitors showcasing groundbreaking attractions, immersive experiences, and transformative technologies across approximately 8,500–8,600 m² of exhibit space.
Opening Ceremony: Culture Meets Creativity
The opening ceremony set the tone for innovation rooted in cultural wisdom. Held on June 30, it featured a mesmerising theatrical performance deeply influenced by Chinese philosophy. Suspended aerial acts, poetic choreography, and fluid storytelling painted a canvas of creativity, balance, and transformation—an apt metaphor for an industry constantly redefining itself.
Jakob Wahl, IAAPA’s President & CEO, praised the event’s global impact and collaboration:
“The energy felt here is a reflection of what’s possible when the world comes together…”
Jack Chan, IAAPA Asia-Pacific EVP, reflected on Shanghai’s fusion of tradition and technology:
“Shanghai is a location where tradition and technology coexist beautifully…”
Exhibitor Floor: Innovations That Capture the Imagination
Over the next three days, the show floor became a playground of possibilities:
- Immersive Rides & VR: AI‑driven thrill rides, virtual-reality attractions, and next-gen simulators highlighted cutting-edge entertainment design.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Eco-conscious panels, including a Canadian-hosted discussion, shared practical strategies for greener operations.
- Robotics & Automation: From queue-management systems to interactive robots, exhibitors displayed smart solutions enhancing guest flow and satisfaction.
Notably, Brogent Technologies unveiled Niagara Takes Flight, an innovative flying theater immersing guests in a cinematic journey over Niagara Falls—a culmination of storytelling and theme park engineering.
Education & Thought Leadership: More Than Just a Show
IAAPA Expo Asia 2025 doubled as a center for knowledge and networking, with 20+ EDUSessions, seminars, and workshops addressing:
- Artificial Intelligence in ride design and park operations
- Storytelling & IP Integration for immersive experiences
- Operational Excellence and guest safety standards
- Sustainability Practices, including wildlife conservation in theme parks (Mandai Wildlife case study).
- Guest Demographic Strategies, such as recruiting Gen Z talent.
High-profile speakers included:
- Jill Estorino – President & Managing Director, Disney Parks International (Leadership Breakfast keynote).
- Cecilia Qin – VP, Trip.com Group, emphasizing tourism synergy.
Exclusive EDUTours offered behind-the-scenes access to Shanghai Disneyland and the under‑construction LEGOLAND Shanghai, offering real-world case studies in design, safety, and guest experience.
Recognition & Awards: Innovation Honored
The Expo spotlighted standout exhibitors via the prestigious IAAPA Brass Ring Best Exhibit Awards:
- Spy Game Junior (booth #2530) claimed the Best Small Booth award (9–27 m²) for an engaging, immersive product journey.
- Noki Asia Limited took second place in the small booth category for a stunning levitation technology demo.
- Nets Tribe (booth #2248) earned top honors in the 36–45 m² category for their engaging, educational booth design.
Attendance & Economic Impact: A Growing Ecosystem
The numbers speak volumes:
| Metric | 2025 Result | Year-over-Year Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Verified Attendees | 7,093 | +40 % |
| Registered Participants | 8,016 | |
| Qualified Buyers (from 85 countries) | 5,651 | |
| Exhibit Area | 8,500–8,600 m² | |
| Exhibitors | 350+ |
Shanghai’s rebound as host city reflects the Asia-Pacific region’s booming market: 4,437 attractions currently operating, with a projected 19% CAGR over the next three years—well above global averages. The local development pipeline includes projects like Shanghai LEGOLAND and a Harry Potter Studio, reinforcing the city’s ambition to become a global theme park frontier.
Memorable Highlights & Networking Moments
- Opening Reception at Shanghai Disneyland—an unforgettable evening that blended magic with industry camaraderie.
- High-energy Opening Ceremony—a cultural and visual spectacle setting a high bar for creativity.
- Lookiido Play Systems’ YouTube highlight reel—capturing industry enthusiasm and Shanghai’s vibrant charm.
Looking Ahead: The Road to IAAPA Expo Asia 2026
With over 206 exhibitors already committed for IAAPA Expo Asia 2026 in Hong Kong (June 9–12, 2026), momentum is clearly building. As Shanghai reaffirms its status as the Asia-Pacific leader in attractions, regional players are gearing for the next wave of immersive experiences, tech-driven solutions, and sustainable growth strategies.
Successful IAAPA Expo Asia 2025
IAAPA Expo Asia 2025 in Shanghai has truly lived up to its promise to Find Possible. By merging visionary technology, cultural expression, and business insight, the event underscored the evolution of attractions into immersive, sustainable, and globally connected experiences.
As Shanghai’s attractions landscape continues to expand—steered by major projects like LEGOLAND and Harry Potter’s global IP pull—the Expo has reinforced the city’s role as a launchpad for innovation and cross-border collaboration.
Industry veterans left with renewed energy, new partnerships, and actionable insights. For Shanghai and the wider Asia‑Pacific region, the future is not just bright—it’s possible.
You can learn more worldwide exhibitions from “Exhibitions Worldwide Focused on Amusement Rides“