The bustling halls of the Shanghai New International Expo Center bore witness to a historic gathering last week as WEPACK 2025, the world’s leading packaging industry exhibition, wrapped up with unprecedented success. Drawing 138,614 visitors—a staggering 51% increase from its 2023 edition—the event cemented its reputation as the must-attend forum for global packaging innovation.
A Global Gathering of Industry Leaders
This year’s expo shattered expectations, with 18,806 international attendees—a 189% surge—reflecting the growing influence of WEPACK as a crossroads for cross-border collaboration. Spanning 120,000 square meters, the exhibition floor buzzed with activity as 1,500+ exhibitors unveiled 200+ new products, showcasing the industry’s relentless drive toward cutting-edge solutions.
From automated packaging machinery to eco-friendly materials, the event covered the full spectrum of the packaging supply chain, reinforcing its role as a one-stop hub for innovation.
Fostering Connections and Cutting-Edge Deals
Beyond the exhibition booths, WEPACK 2025 thrived as a business matchmaking powerhouse. The Targeted Attendee Program (TAP) facilitated 898 meetings, including 318 cross-border partnerships, sparking deals that will reshape the global packaging landscape. Over 100 industry associations from China and abroad participated in organized delegations, turning the event into a melting pot of strategic alliances.
“The energy here is electric,” remarked one attendee. “Every conversation has the potential to unlock new markets or technologies.”
Spotlight on Sustainability and Market Expansion
Sustainability took center stage, with exhibitors highlighting green packaging solutions designed to reduce waste and carbon footprints. Meanwhile, the Vietnam Investment Day Forum offered actionable insights for companies eyeing Southeast Asia’s booming markets, while the GC O2O Outlet Sale Event provided exclusive discounts on equipment and materials.
Looking Ahead: WEPACK 2026 in Shenzhen
With this year’s record-breaking success, anticipation is already building for WEPACK 2026, set to take place at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center. Promising an even larger scale and deeper industry engagement, the next edition aims to further bridge global markets and accelerate packaging innovation.
For now, the echoes of WEPACK 2025 linger—a testament to Shanghai’s role as a beacon of progress in the packaging world. As one exhibitor put it, “This isn’t just an exhibition; it’s where the future of packaging gets written.”
