IAAPA Expo Asia 2025 Opening Ceremony (Photo: IAAPA)
IAAPA Expo Asia 2025, the premier trade exhibition in the Asia-Pacific region for the global attractions industry, has officially opened its trade show floor doors in Shanghai.
Thousands of tourism and destination professionals from around the world have gathered at the Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC) to explore the latest innovations and developing trends shaping the future of entertainment and leisure. The event, organised by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, welcomes professionals for a range of venues including theme parks, museums, zoos, water parks and experiences.
With over 350 exhibitors, IAAPA Expo Asia is providing a platform for discovering breakthrough products and solutions across an 8,600 square meter trade show floor. This year’s Expo also offers attendees rich opportunities to exchange insights and build lasting industry connections with over 20 education events.
A captivating theatrical spectacle with Chinese philosophical themes took the audience on an immersive journey of creativity, balance, and transformation during the opening ceremony, setting the tone for the Expo. As actors stepped out from the brink of a metaphorical river, tenderly washing silks that soon flew into the air, the stage came to life. The aerial trio’s fluid, elegant, and poetic motions, suspended far above the stage, mirrored the flowing nature of water. A spectacular blend of circus artistry and philosophical narrative marked the ceremony’s climax.
IAAPA Asia Pacific’s VP and executive director Jack Chan said: “After six years, we are proud to return to this powerhouse destination and incredible host city. Shanghai is a location where tradition and technology coexist beautifully, and IAAPA Expo Asia 2025 embraces this spirit by bringing together cultural expression, creative storytelling, and world-class innovation. It is an exciting time for our industry.”
An IAAPA Expo Asia Education Session from 2024’s event (Photo: IAAPA)
IAAPA President and CEO Jakob Wahl underscored the importance of global collaboration and forward-thinking leadership in his opening remarks, saying:
“IAAPA Expo Asia 2025 showcases the incredible potential of our industry to inspire, connect, and evolve. Shanghai sets the stage for meaningful dialogue and bold transformation. The energy felt here is a reflection of what’s possible when the world comes together to share knowledge and innovative ideas. We look forward to seeing all the wonderful relationships forged in the week ahead.”
With a program of seminars, sold-out EDUTours, and networking events running throughout the trade show, the expo “is a celebration of shared purpose, vision, and creativity,” says IAAPA. “As attendees walk the show floor, attend expert-led sessions, and witness the industry’s latest innovations, the energy in Shanghai is unmistakable — a reflection of the attractions industry’s enduring commitment to delight, inspire, and lead.”
The Expo runs from 30 June – 3 July 2025, with the show floor open from 1 – 3 July 2025. More information is available on IAAPA’s website.
