Music China, Asia’s largest musical instruments trade fair, will make its highly anticipated return to the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC) from 28 – 31 October 2026, and is set to deliver another vibrant showcase for instruments, services, and accessories across the music spectrum. ‘Tomorrow’s Music,’ a dedicated hall spotlighting musical instrument and equipment innovation, will make a return following its successful debut last year, alongside healing instruments and music merchandise products. Building on that momentum, the 2026 edition will further deepen the exploration of music’s connections to technology, holistic wellness and cultural tourism.
This industry momentum is underpinned by encouraging signs in the market. Asia Pacific leads the global musical instrument market with around 40% share, while the China market alone is projected to reach USD 3 billion this year – reflecting the region’s growth potential for musical innovation and engagement.
Ms Judy Cheung, Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, views the fair as a catalyst to capture this energy: “Music China is all about supporting the music industry – this means opening doors to broader growth potential and new opportunities, and the upcoming edition represents the next chapter in our vision. While remaining a comprehensive trade platform for musical instruments, we strive to reveal more emerging application scenarios, and cultivate a wider passion for music across users of all ages and needs.”
With an extensive exhibitor presence spanning 28 countries and regions – headlined by 10 country pavilions – the 2025 edition demonstrated Music China’s lasting global appeal.
The show’s impact in driving business was equally evident, with the pavilion from Huangqiao – a leading violin and cello manufacturing hub in China – securing USD 800,000 in onsite orders on the opening day alone. The Inneo Group from Wuhan, meanwhile, surpassed USD 120 million in onsite orders over the fair period, drawing over 2,000 daily visits to its booth.
Building on this strong foundation, the 23rd edition of Music China is expected to welcome a diverse assembly of exhibitors once again, from domestic manufacturers to iconic international brands. Leading names from overseas include bow specialist Arcus / Bernd Muesing KG (Germany) and string producer Thomastik-Infeld GmbH (Austria), wind instrument producer Yanagisawa (Japan), guitar manufacturer Alhambra (Spain), music publisher Henry Lemoine (France), as well as music qualification providers ABRSM, RSL Awards Ltd (Rockschool Limited) and Trinity College London (UK).
Across 12 halls, the fair will present a complete spectrum of musical products, with strong representation in bowed string instruments and electronic instruments. In addition, notable emerging categories including smart instruments, sound reinforcement, DJ technology, and music production software will broaden the show’s scope, attracting new visitor profiles and creating new opportunities for collaboration and cross-sector business growth.
Drawing thousands of manufacturers, dealers, and over 110,000 trade buyers, educators, and music professionals from across China and beyond, Music China serves as a key platform where the full breadth of the industry gathers to connect. Ms Corinne Votteler, Director of Sales and Marketing International at Bärenreiter, who exhibited at the previous edition, echoed this sentiment: “Exhibiting at Music China is indispensable. It remains the singular platform that enables direct, meaningful connection with musicians and educators across China – a vital link in this vast market.”
A key highlight of the 2026 edition will be the return of the thematic ‘Tomorrow’s Music’ showcase in Hall N2. Following its successful launch last year, the curated space will once again serve as the epicentre for digital evolution, showcasing the latest advancements in music technology, AI-driven instrument design, smart learning tools, and professional audio solutions. The hall’s product displays and fringe events will span the entire value chain of music creation – from composition and production to live performance – exploring how music intersects with performing arts, broadcasting, film, gaming, and even intelligent automotive applications.
At the heart of the hall, the Music X zone will once again take centre stage, anchored by its signature platforms – the Music X Lab, MIDI Zone, and X Stage. The zone will showcase cutting-edge music technology products and interactive solutions, offering exhibitors and visitors a dynamic space to explore how people create, learn, and experience music. Together, these elements will reinforce Music China’s position as Asia’s leading launchpad for music innovation and next-generation creative tools.
This focus on innovation goes hand in hand with broader applications for music. China’s wellness economy is estimated to reach RMB 10 trillion (USD 1.4 trillion) by 2030,[4] with music and sound healing emerging as expanding sectors within this landscape. Relevant workshops are on the rise across the country, and popular among young adults and the working public seeking stress relief. This industry uptick has further accelerated the rise of healing-themed hotels and music-driven cultural tourism projects which seamlessly integrate immersive sound therapy into a wide range of settings – from natural landscapes and resort campsites to historic towns. By extending the tourism value chain and enriching the visitor experience, music can infuse destinations with emotional resonance, enhancing their appeal and encouraging repeat visits.
Building on this momentum, Music China 2026 aims to further expand music’s applications across lifestyle and wellness through its exhibitor lineup and fringe programme. It will strengthen its showcase of healing instruments, such as singing bowls and handpans, alongside engaging forums and workshops.
