2021 IAAPA Expo Asia to be staged in Shanghai in August

With its 2020 edition having been cancelled due to COVID-19, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) has announced that this year’s IAAPA Expo Asia will take place in the Chinese city of Shanghai from 10th to 13th August.

With the event scheduled to take place in Macau in June this year, where the 2020 Expo was scheduled to be held, IAAPA has made the decision to change the date and location in reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Explaining the new event details, IAAPA President and Chief Executive, Hal McEvoy advised “IAAPA’s role has always been to help members meet, do business, and learn from each other.

“It is more important than ever we provide such opportunities in a safe manner, at the right time, in the right location. After careful review and with significant input from our team, members, exhibitors, and the IAAPA Board of Directors, the decision has been made to relocate IAAPA Expo Asia 2021 to Shanghai, China.”

“Given the continued uncertainties impacting travel – international and domestic – we believe the relocation and event date change will provide more opportunity for exhibitors and attendees to participate.”

The event will launch on Tuesday 10th August will a full conference day, which will then be followed by three days of educational sessions, special events and networking opportunities, as well as a full tradeshow floor.

McEvoy added “the health and safety of our members and our team remains our top priority

“While it is hard to believe we are still working through effects of the global pandemic, we are encouraged by news that the initial vaccines are being administered in locations around the world.

“We know it’s going to take time and the phases of recovery will vary by region, but we are optimistic about the outlook for our industry. During IAAPA Expo Asia we will follow safety guidelines and operational procedures recommended by global and health authorities, and event industry experts. We look forward to returning to Shanghai for IAAPA Expo Asia, and once again bringing the global attractions industry together.”

IAAPA Expo Asia has been the attractions industry’s leading event in the region. Those exhibitors currently contracted for Macao should contact the IAAPA Global Sales Team. Industry manufacturers, suppliers, and consultants can also book exhibit space for IAAPA Expo Europe 2021 in Barcelona in September and IAAPA Expo 2021 in Orlando in November. Attendee registration for these events will open in the spring.

IAAPA Expo Asia 2021 will be held at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC).

For more information on IAAPA Expo Asia, click here to access event details in the Australasian Leisure Management industry Calendar.

Images: Shanghai's Huangpu River (top) and Shanghai's hosting of the IAAPA Expo Asia in 2019 (below).