Inventory of China’s High-Level Hardware Trade Shows

Exploring China’s Hardware Trade Shows: A Guide to Key Exhibitions

Every year, China hosts a wide range of specialized hardware trade shows. However, most of these are simply versions of the Canton Fair. The benefit is that these exhibitions provide opportunities for smaller players in the hardware industry to get involved, with many international hardware trade shows held on Chinese soil.

While hardware shows predominantly showcase various types of hardware products, you can also spot hardware at furniture exhibitions and others. The scope of hardware is broad, covering categories like construction hardware, daily-use hardware, home hardware, door and window hardware, and hardware accessories, alongside specialized tools.

China International Hardware Show – Shanghai Koln International Hardware Show

Known informally as the autumn Shanghai Koln Hardware Export Fair, this exhibition takes place every year around China’s National Day in early October, at the Shanghai Hongqiao International Exhibition Center.

This event has been held annually since 2001, and it’s simply referred to as “CIHS” followed by the year. For example, the 2019 edition was titled CIHS 2019 China International Hardware Show.

Over the years, the show has evolved, from its early days at the Guangdi Exhibition Center to the current venue, the Hongqiao International Exhibition Center. It gained more international exposure when Germany’s Koln International Exhibition Co. became involved, and later, the support of organizations like the China Hardware Products Association and the China General Chamber of Commerce further strengthened its international appeal.

CIHS now stands as China’s largest hardware show with a strong focus on international trade, attracting exhibitors primarily from China’s trade companies and export-oriented factories. International sections have been added, featuring areas for Indian, European, American, and Taiwanese exhibitors. The show’s international nature continues to grow.

The show primarily attracts procurement representatives from Chinese trade companies and foreign purchasing agents. For factory suppliers, CIHS is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with global markets.

One notable downside is the exhibition timing. It often overlaps with the Canton Fair, forcing exhibitors to rush between Shanghai and Guangzhou. This tight schedule can be a challenge, especially for suppliers and their customers, as they juggle these back-to-back events.

China Hardware Expo (Yongkang Show)

Yes, you read that correctly—the China Hardware Expo, also known as the Yongkang Show, drops the “international” from its name. This show is organized by major trade bodies like the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade and the China Hardware Products Association, with local support from the Yongkang City government.

Held every September at the Yongkang International Exhibition Center, this show caters to the local hardware industry. It’s an event mainly for hardware enthusiasts from the region of Yongkang and neighboring areas like Nantong, Shandong, and Hunan.

While global brands are notably absent, the expo gives attendees the chance to see a variety of high-quality products from leading domestic brands. The Yongkang show is ideal for those looking to tap into smaller wholesale markets and strengthen connections with regional hardware distributors.

Northeast China International Hardware Exhibition

This is more of a gathering for local dealers in China’s northern regions. Organized by the Shenyang Industrial and Commercial Union and the Liaoning North Industry and Commerce Exhibition Services Co., this show is held at the Shenyang International Exhibition Center.

While not as flashy as the larger shows, the Northeast Hardware Expo offers affordable booth fees and a chance to explore business opportunities in China’s growing northeast market. Given the strong government support for revitalizing the old industrial bases, it’s a great opportunity to expand into this underserved region.

Global Exposure: Chinese Hardware Manufacturers Go Worldwide

As Chinese hardware manufacturers continue to grow, they’re increasingly visible on the global stage. Trade shows in cities like Cologne, Las Vegas, Dubai, Moscow, Mexico City, and others are now filled with Chinese suppliers and traders. In fact, the German Cologne Exhibition has jokingly been called “the China Cologne show” due to the overwhelming presence of Chinese manufacturers.

Wherever there’s a hardware show around the world, you’re likely to find Chinese companies making their mark.

The Future of Chinese Manufacturing

There’s an old saying in China: “Good wine needs no bush.” Over the past 30 years, China has rapidly advanced from a largely industrial economy to becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse. While challenges like product imitation, low quality, and market confusion still exist, the country’s manufacturing sector has seen rapid growth.

The next step is to move from simple manufacturing to innovation and creativity. As the middle class expands and economic growth accelerates, China’s manufacturing sector is undergoing a transformation. It’s time for companies to refine their products and boost business efficiency, ensuring they remain competitive in the global market.

China’s hardware industry is ready for the next phase. Let’s continue to push forward!