The International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES), together with fwd: Bundesvereinigung Veranstaltungswirtschaft, has opened registrations for the next iteration of its ISO 20121 Convoy Training Programme, continuing a proven, industry-led approach to sustainable management in the exhibition and events sector.
International briefs this month span strong January buyer traffic in Hong Kong, new show launches and venue activations in India and Australia, and a packed 2026 calendar across Europe and the United Arab Emirates, with organizers emphasizing attendance targets, exhibitor growth, and expanded programming.
The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) and PCMA have formalised a strategic collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at PCMA Convening Leaders 2026, last week in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The agreement strengthens cooperation across thought leadership, professional education, research, and emerging leader engagement within the global business events industry.
The 11th edition of Global Exhibitions Day (GED) will be celebrated on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, under the theme “Exhibitions drive opportunities.”
Venues and destinations across Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, and the Middle East close out 2025 with strong results and forward-looking commitments. From record revenues and major capital investments to expanded exhibition footprints and new association partnerships, operators are positioning for sustained demand in meetings, conventions, and live events.
UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, is pleased to announce that AsiaWorld-Expo has renewed its multi-year UFI Diamond Sponsorship agreement, further strengthening its longstanding partnership with UFI.
Europe and the UK are advancing their leadership in global meetings and events with record-breaking attendance, major innovation initiatives and new sector-shaping conferences. From Barcelona’s AI-focused smart city and education-tech gatherings to Antwerp’s blue-economy strategy and London’s high-profile 2027 World Scout Conference win, the region is defining the next era of sustainable, knowledge-driven events.
The availability of exhibition space remains a fundamental driver of the global exhibition industry. UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has released the 2025 edition of its World Map of Exhibition Venues, offering the most comprehensive overview of exhibition venue capacity worldwide. The research was conducted in collaboration with jwc GmbH.
Global business events are gaining momentum across key regions as venues, associations and destinations report strong attendance, new partnerships and sustainability gains.
SITE (Society for Incentive Travel Excellence) has appointed Bishop-McCann as its global strategic event partner for a three-year term. Under the agreement, Bishop-McCann will provide key planning services and support delivery of SITE’s portfolio of events worldwide, operating as a true extension of the association’s internal team.
Asia-Pacific and Middle East convention centers report major wins, new congress launches, and growing sector investment, reinforcing the region’s expanding global role in meetings and events through 2025–2026.
A worldwide look at October’s top meetings and events headlines—from record-breaking attendance and major venue upgrades to sustainability milestones and cross-border industry partnerships. This global roundup spotlights the trends shaping the future of conventions, exhibitions, and business events across every region.
