Chinese manufacturers are facing difficulties in attracting overseas customers. This was recently exemplified at the 2026 Shenzhen Foreign Trade Import and Export Fair, held at the Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center from June 16–18. The event was held alongside the 12th Shenzhen International Cross-Border E-Commerce Trade Expo and the 9th Global Cross-Border E-Commerce Festival, and was promoted as a major platform for international trade and cross-border business cooperation.
However, multiple exhibitors reported that actual attendance by foreign buyers fell far short of organizers’ claims. According to participants, most booths received little visitor traffic and generated few meaningful business opportunities. Some exhibitors alleged that organizers hired foreign individuals to pose as overseas buyers in order to create the appearance of strong international participation. Videos circulated online purportedly showed, at subway stations, foreign “actors” having their names and phone numbers checked before receiving payment.
On June 17, hundreds of exhibitors reportedly gathered to protest the false advertising and demanded refunds of exhibition fees, average around RMB 20,000 (US$3,000) per booth. Videos posted online showed a large security presence at the venue as authorities sought to maintain order.
On June 18, some frustrated exhibitors allegedly damaged their own displays and exhibition facilities after their refund requests went unanswered.
Source: Epoch Times, June 19, 2026
https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/26/6/19/n14792065.htm