The spring 2026 edition of CHIC Shanghai incorporating childrenswear zone CHIC Kidz, which continues to grow as a distinct lifestyle segment, welcomed 1,291 exhibitors with 1,335 brands. Highlighting every aspect of the industry, from manufacturing and design to digital innovation, the event on 11-13 March drew more than 160,000 trade visitors seeking sourcing opportunities, networking and market information.
With 12 exhibition segments, CHIC covered the entire fashion ecosystem – from womenswear, menswear and kidswear to accessories, denim, outdoor, and digital fashion. The show’s clear segmentation enables efficient visitor navigation, targeted product sourcing, and structured market analysis.
Under the guiding theme, In Search of Spring, the event reflected an industry in transition – navigating economic adjustments, structural transformation and new growth opportunities, both domestically and internationally.
Market in transition: Quality, efficiency and new growth areas
China’s apparel industry continues to undergo structural realignment. While domestic market dynamics are shifting, international markets and new consumer segments are gaining importance. Exports to regions such as the UK, Europe and Japan are developing positively, followed by growth potential in Latin America and Africa.
The market is also moving toward higher product quality and stronger “value for money,” tighter cost control across supply chains, and clearer positioning between premium and volume-driven segments. Key growth drivers include sportswear and outdoor, lifestyle-oriented fashion, and “Chinese style” as an expression of cultural identity.
CHIC as a strategic business platform
CHIC is not only an order platform for the Chinese market but increasingly serves as a bridge between local and global markets. A key feature of CHIC Spring 2026 was its differentiated business formats, enabling targeted and efficient matchmaking between exhibitors and buyers.
From CHIC Matching formats with more than 130 invited buyer groups, to themed sourcing meetings and open networking platforms, the fair offered a multi-layered system connecting supply and demand.
While CHIC Matching focuses on concrete business deals and order discussions, curated sourcing formats enable focused product discovery and assortment development. Complementary open networking areas also provide space for informal exchange, market observation and long-term relationship building.
Industry programme: Knowledge exchange and strategic dialogue
With more than 100 events, CHIC Spring 2026 offered a diverse supporting programme. Formats such as CHIC Talks, curated runway shows at CHIC Shows, targeted matchmaking events and expert discussions provided space for exchange, inspiration and new perspectives.
Key topics included the internationalisation of Chinese brands, retail transformation, digitalisation, new business models and sustainability across the value chain.
Commenting is Chen Dapeng, vice president of the China National Textile Council, and president of the China National Garment Association and CHIC. “CHIC is far more than a trade fair – it is a reflection of our industry’s transformation. Despite economic challenges, we see a clear shift toward quality, innovation and internationalisation. The fair brings together the key players and creates the foundation for new partnerships and sustainable growth.”
CHIC Autumn will take place on 25-27 August 2026 at the National Exhibition & Convention Centre, Shanghai. For further information, please click here.