Why international visitors are drawn to China's ICIF

Crowds packed the halls of the ongoing 22nd China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF), one of China's largest and most influential cultural events. But beyond the exhibitions and performances, the fair has also become a gathering place for visitors from around the world, each arriving with a distinct purpose.

For Shirley, a singer and music teacher from Colombia, the fair was a source of artistic inspiration. "I'm interested in everything related to art, music, and fashion," she said while exploring the exhibition halls. "That's why I'm here."

She was particularly interested in cultural and creative content related to the APEC meetings to be held in Shenzhen in 2026. Shirley said her team had even created a song inspired by the event, and she hoped to film videos at the fair to include in her music projects.

Others came with business goals in mind. Julia, a visitor from Russia who runs an online business, said she attended ICIF to search for new product ideas and potential suppliers.

"I came here to find some ideas for my business," she said. "I've discovered factories making interesting products that could also interest my friends in related industries."

Aside from work, she also explored other exhibition halls and unexpectedly found something else she loved: Chinese tea. "We were looking for something new and found a really good tea shop," she said. "I love Chinese tea, so I took the opportunity to get more for myself."

For international students studying in China, the fair offers something textbooks cannot. Italian students Gloria and Luca said attending ICIF allowed them to experience Chinese culture in a much more vivid and immersive way. "Seeing it in a textbook is one thing, but experiencing it here is quite another," Gloria said.

"In Italy, we also have a lot of art and cultural heritage," Luca explained. "But here in China, it feels multiplied."

Gloria added that she was fascinated by the diversity of China's 56 ethnic groups and could spend days watching the performances and appreciating the costumes and makeup.

Through art, business, music, and cultural exchange, ICIF has become more than just an exhibition. For many international visitors, it is a window into a more dynamic and diverse side of China.

Reporter: Li Fangwang

Video & Poster & Photo: Guo Hongda