#China #Hefei #Smart Manufacturing #World Manufacturing Convention

Innovations at the 2026 World Manufacturing Convention

The 2026 World Manufacturing Convention was inaugurated on September 20 at the Hefei Binhu International Convention and Exhibition Center. As the opening date approached, excitement built around the event, which promises to showcase innovations from over 900 companies and feature more than 10,000 exhibits.



With a theme of “Intelligent Manufacturing for a Better Future,” the convention spans an impressive 70,000 square meters, dedicated to showcasing advancements in manufacturing processes and integrated ecosystems. The exhibition includes 20,000 square meters focused on innovation and achievements in the manufacturing sector, while 50,000 square meters are allocated for commercial displays.

Highlights of the Exhibition

Among the mesmerizing displays, a humanoid robot impressively demonstrated a pitch pot throw, while a patrol inspection robot showcased its capabilities. Furthermore, an electric cargo drone performed a vertical takeoff and landing, exemplifying the event's focus on cutting-edge technology in manufacturing.

The exhibition is meticulously organized by value chains in manufacturing. For instance, a 3D cross-section model reveals the mining robotics cluster located in Huainan, with key players like T.SPEC and Tangxing Technology at its core. This display meticulously depicted workflows, from underground tunnel construction to shaft operation. Attendees witnessed firsthand the eight core applications, which included excavation, deck support, materials transport, and coal bunker cleaning, among others.

In the Innovation Pavilion, groundbreaking technology was on display, including a superconducting quantum processor featuring 180 qubits, and the Burning Plasma Experimental Superconducting Tokamak (nicknamed the “artificial sun”)—a development aimed at fusion energy. Also showcased were AI research platforms and a ground-based facility for simulating planetary environmental conditions, representing the transformation from traditional manufacturing to a future driven by innovation.

Visitors were not only presented with products but also witnessed interconnected manufacturing ecosystems. The showcase for smart and connected vehicles featured fully constructed vehicles, EV batteries, automotive semiconductors, and by-wire chassis systems. Additionally, the next-generation information technology and clean energy area demonstrated the infrastructure necessary for AI, computing capacities, and human-machine interfaces.

Focus on Regional Contributions

The guest province Sichuan emphasized regional cooperation under the slogan, “Smart Manufacturing in Tianfu, Connected to Global Value Chains.” There was significant participation from multinational corporations like Continental Tires and Corning Display Technologies alongside local joint ventures. Notably, the United Kingdom was honored as the first guest country to return, highlighting international collaboration.

An interesting aspect of the convention involved technology-driven senior care solutions. Anhui Longchuang Intelligent Technology unveiled a millimeter-wave radar designed to detect falls and alert family members or nearby caregivers without the need for a phone call. This innovation reflects the importance of technology in elder care, addressing safety and responsiveness through advanced monitoring systems.

As the fair unfolded, it became increasingly clear that China is undergoing a transformation from “Made in China” to “Smart Manufacturing in China.” In the first seven months of 2026 alone, Anhui province produced more than 2 million vehicles, including over 1 million electric vehicles, demonstrating its leading role in the automotive industry, alongside significant exports that further cement its status in various sectors.

In conclusion, the 2026 World Manufacturing Convention highlights not only the technological advancements within China but also the collaborative spirit of global partnerships and innovations that define the future of manufacturing. Participants left the event inspired, witnessing firsthand how interconnected these manufacturing ecosystems are becoming and what this means for the future economy.

Stay tuned for more updates from the convention as it continues to unfold until September 23.