Chengdu: The Rise of Science Fiction as a Global Phenomenon

For a time, science fiction was synonymous with classic European and American works like Star Wars, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and Journey to the Center of the Earth. However, this perception altered dramatically when Chinese author Liu Cixin made history by winning the 2015 Hugo Award for Best Novel with the first book of his trilogy, The Three-Body Problem. This achievement marked him as the first Asian to receive such an honor, catalyzing a broader interest in Chinese science fiction.

In 2023, Chengdu proudly hosted the 81st World Science Fiction Convention, a significant event that took place for the first time in China and the second time in Asia. This occasion positioned Chengdu on the global science fiction map, showcasing the burgeoning talent and narratives emerging from China. As a testament to its impact, The Three-Body Problem has been translated into over 30 languages and has reached a global audience through both its literary form and its film adaptations. Interestingly, many may not know that the inception of this trilogy began in Science Fiction World, a magazine based in Chengdu.

Chengdu International Sci-Fi Industry Salon

To further bolster Chengdu's science fiction industry and enhance international cooperation, the Chengdu International Sci-Fi Industry Salon was held on May 28, 2025. This event was organized by the National Business Daily and hosted by the NBD Think Tank. It convened key players from the global science fiction scene, including representatives from prominent publishing companies and animation studios.

Among the participants were members from the French publishing giant Hachette, the second-largest publishing group in the world, and D’Art Shtajio, a Japanese animation studio renowned for being the first major studio led by African-American creators. During their presentations, Hachette and D’Art Shtajio exchanged insights on intellectual property, copyright management, and animation production, addressing vital topics such as “Creating Ideal Environments for Innovation in Science Fiction” and “Enhancing Cross-Border Collaboration in the Industry.”

The event also featured international experts like Brigitte Leblanc, editor of Hachette Heroes, who discussed the French publication of The Three-Body Problem comic adaptation, and Dalton Grant, an American animator known for his work on popular films like Cars and Shrek. At panel discussions, Mr. Grant underscored how science fiction stimulates unexpected creativity and transcends perceived limits, while Ms. Leblanc cited The Three-Body Problem’s global success as a model for international intellectual property collaboration.

Organizers emphasized that such platforms aim not only to enhance the diversity and integration of Chengdu’s science fiction industry but also to amplify the reach of Chinese science fiction works abroad. By fostering cultural exchanges between China and the wider world, Chengdu aspires to become a crossroad for imaginative storytelling and innovative ideas.

As the event concluded, the enthusiasm and commitment to expand the science fiction narrative in Chengdu were palpable, a hopeful sign for the future of this genre in China and beyond. The city's role as a nurturing ground for aspiring authors, creatives, and industry professionals continues to grow, promising a bright future where science fiction can thrive in new and unexpected ways.