Shanghai Exhibit Rental Guide offers exhibitors inside tips and Chinese customs for exhibiting in one of the leading Asian capitals for trade shows. This tradeshow city is a veritable empire and shows in Shanghai represent billions of dollars of buying power on its’ trade show floors. From food to technology, the Shanghai exhibitions are some of the largest in the world and exhibiting represents the opportunity to catapult your business in the Asian markets. We offer full turnkey trade show services including shipping, building, taxes and reimbursements, and full communication with vendors to bring you US style services on the other side of the globe.
Exhibiting
Taxes
A flat VAT tax of 15% is assessed along with a 5% tax on certain goods and services and refunds are available if you prepare in advance.
Labor
There are no labor unions in China, however you will be required to fill out labor forms for foreign labor. You are permitted to set up your own exhibition but will need a representative to ensure that your exhibits meet all requirements of the show. Be sure to have a manager that speaks Mandarin for your install and dismantle, as well as an exhibit representative to oversee construction. Most Chinese exhibits are one time use and as such the quality differs vastly from quality in the US. Paint is much thinner and the color is not as deep, so be prepared or make sure that your Shanghai exhibit rental graphics are sent well in advance for install.
Waste
Show organizers handle all waste removal for a fee included in your show registration.
Electric
Standard 220 voltage is used with European style plugs in exhibit halls. Adaptors and transformers are available through show organizers.
Hospitality and Language
The official language is Mandarin, however most shows are conducted in English. All printed materials should be in Mandarin and English and a translator is recommended on the show floor. Larger exhibits and smaller exhibits offer hospitality in the form of sweets and drinks, but alcohol is uncommon on the trade show floor and should be avoided until after hours.
Etiquette
Greetings and Customs
Shaking hands is acceptable in China and when business cards are presented, accept them with two hands and consider them carefully before putting them away. Never write on a business card in the presence of the person who extended it to you. Make small talk prior to your business pitch and if you are going to a dinner, be sure to honor the toasting tradition. A senior person will initiate the first toast, and hold the glass in your right hand. Let all guests take the first bite prior to taking yours. Business formal attire is still the norm on the trade show floor and both men and women should avoid too much jewelry. Try to learn a phrase or two prior to showing in Shanghai, as this nod to the local culture goes a long way in later negotiations.
Transportation and Accommodations
Hotels fill up very quickly prior to shows and should be reserved more than six months in advance. Public transport is reliable and fast, however the quickest mode of transport are taxis and hired drivers. We recommend hired drivers for the duration of the show to keep it easiest for your team.
Shows
- CITEXPO
- FIBO
- CFE
- SIFSE
- CDS
- WMF
- Oil China
- LED China
- CIIF
- Robotics Show
- MWCS
- NAB Shanghai
Showing in Shanghai may sound like a daunting task to Westerners, however, show organizers make it very easy for exhibitors of any nationality to exhibit their goods or services. It is important to manage your expectations and prepare at least a year in advance when showing in Shanghai to run a smooth show. We have shown multiple times and are there with our clients every step of the way, rentals@exhibitexperience.com
