92nd UFI Global Congress welcomes 600+ delegates to Hong Kong

Paris/Hong Kong, 25th November: UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, concluded its annual event, 92nd UFI Global Congress, in Hong Kong, running from 19th to 22nd November 2025.

This year’s congress, themed “Shaping the Future”, was hosted by AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE), welcoming over 600 delegates from 47 countries.

During the congress, the Main Stage delivered future-focused programme highlighting the forces reshaping the global exhibitions industry; The Insight Series sessions gathered UFI Award winners and Working Groups for interactive discussions; delegates could also join lively discussions and exchanged insights at the Bate-Papo Corner, which is a new format side stage.

Chris Skeith OBE, CEO of UFI, said, “This Congress was a milestone in UFI’s history. As we celebrated 100 years of connecting people globally, we were also looking ahead and building the foundations for the next century of our industry… It was a powerful reminder of what this community can achieve when we come together with purpose, passion, and momentum.”

Panittha Buri, Vice Chairperson of BHIRAJ BURI GROUP, will be UFI’s new President for the 2025-26 year. UFI Trio for 2025-26 will include Panittha Buri; outgoing President, High Jones (CEO of RX); and incoming President, Wolfram Diener (CEO of Messe Düsseldorf).

The next edition of the congress, the 93rd UFI Global Congress, will take place from 2nd to 5th November 2025, in Manama, Bahrain, hosted by Exhibition World Bahrain.

Alibaba posts decrease in profit for September Quarter

Hong Kong, 25th November: Last week, the Alibaba Group, a leading e-commerce company in China, released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025. The company recorded total revenues of US$35 billion, up 5% year-on-year.

However, Alibaba posted a decrease of 35% in its net profit, down to US$2.9 billion. The company attributed the decline to the investment in quick commerce, user experiences, and technology.

In terms of Alibaba’s B2B business, revenues from the “China commerce wholesale” business, under its Alibaba China E-commerce Group, primarily generated through 1688.com, were US$947 million, representing an increase of 13% year-on-year. Revenues from its “International commerce wholesale” business under Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group, primarily operating through Alibaba.com, increased by 11%, reaching US$945 million.

In addition, Alibaba also released its financial results for the six months ended 30th September, with revenues of US$70 billion, an increase of 3% year-on-year. Net profit in the six-month period dropped 7%, amounting at US$8.8 billion. Diluted earnings per share in the first half of the financial year were RMB 3.34 (US$0.47).

Revenues from the “China commerce wholesale” business rose 13% year-on-year, reaching US$1.9 billion; while revenues from its “International commerce wholesale” business were US$1.8 billion, up 12%.

Eddie Wu, Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Group, was quoted, “We have entered into an investment phase to build long-term strategic value in AI technologies and infrastructure and a consumption platform integrating daily life services and e-commerce. With our significant strategic investments in these areas, our two core businesses of AI + Cloud and consumption continued to deliver strong growth this quarter. Robust AI demand further accelerated our Cloud Intelligence Group business, with revenue up 34% and AI-related product revenue achieving triple-digit year-over-year growth for the ninth consecutive quarter. In our consumption business, quick commerce continued to scale with significant improvement in unit economics and drove rapid growth in monthly active consumers on the Taobao app.”

VNU AP expands Aquatech portfolio in Thailand

Bangkok, 26th November: VNU Asia Pacific’s (VNU AP) water technology, Aquatech, will expand its portfolio to Bangkok, by launching Aquatech Asia. The new event will run from 25th to 27th November 2026, focusing on flooding and drought management, climate resilience, and integrated water solutions.

The Aquatech portfolio includes events in Amsterdam, Mexico, and China. The new event is supported by a strategic partnership between RAI Amsterdam and VNU Asia Pacific, combining local market expertise with Aquatech’s global network and knowledge programme.

Justin Pau, CEO, VNU Asia Pacific, commented, “Asia is at the center of the world’s water challenge – and opportunity. With soaring demand driven by urbanization and climate change, the need for smarter, sustainable water solutions is more critical than ever. Aquatech Asia serves as the key platform to connect global innovation with regional needs, driving progress toward water resilience. With over a decade of expertise as Southeast Asia’s leading trade show organizer, VNU Asia Pacific is proud to bring this world-class event to empower industries and communities across the region.”

385 MICE events held in Macau in Q3

Macau, 26th November: Macau’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) released the latest MICE Statistics for the quarter ended 30th September 2025. A total of 385 MICE events were held in Macau in the quarter, up 10% year-on-year. The number of participants and attendees also grew 8.2%, reaching 567,200.

Among the 385 events, 360 were meetings and conferences, increased by 11% year-on-year. Number of participants was up 9.2%, amounting at 68,500. A total of 18 exhibitions were held during the quarter, up 29%, with the number of attendees rising 9.1%, to 497,300.

The figures for the first nine months of 2025 were also provided. Macau hosted a total of 1,331 MICE events in the period, up 26% year-on-year. However, the number of participants dropped by 1,1%, at 995,200.

Quick takes

Chiang Mai Marriott opens new events facilities

The Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel announced the launch of the Plaii Ballroom and Plaii Hybrid Meetings & Entertainment Complex. The Plaii Ballroom features 400 m2 of pillarless space, which is purpose-built for international conferences, product launches, and luxury celebrations. The complex also includes 11 meeting rooms, executive breakout suites, and a naturally lit Mingle Space, as well as lifestyle and entertainment facilities.

RX launches MIPIM Middle East in 2026

International exhibition organiser, RX Global, will launch MIPIM Middle East in Riyadh, running from 20th to 21st October 2026, at the Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh. The new event will bring global real-estate investors together with policymakers and project owners from across the region. MIPIM Middle East will be part of the MIPIM portfolio, which includes events in Cannes and Hong Kong.

ABEA appoints two new directors

The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) appointed two new directors to the board: Cindy-Lee Bakos from MCI Australia, and Nick Jeffery from the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC). Angie Becker from Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) was re-elected onto the board. Peter King’s term as Chair will extend for another two years, together with Vice Chair, Matt Pearce from Talk2Media, will continue in their roles.

RX appoints new Executive Vice President

RX Global, a leading exhibition organiser, appointed Amy Morton as its new Executive Vice President of Human Resources for RX and RELX Corporate, effective 1st December 2025. Morton will be responsible for aligning the company’s people strategies with its core business objective, focusing on driving talent development, retention, and acquisition initiatives across RX. Prior joining RX, she has held senior leadership roles at prominent financial and asset management firms. She will report directly to Hugh Jones, she will also join the RX Executive Leadership Team and the Global HR Leadership Team.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2025)

Koelnmesse restructures leadership in Asia

Singapore, 19th November: International exhibition organiser, Koelnmesse, announced to strengthen its presence across the Asia-Pacific region (APAC), with a new leadership structure and expanded strategic oversight.

Mathias Küpper has been appointed as Koelnmesse’s first Region President APAC, effective 1st December 2025. In the new role, he will lead the company’s regional alignment from Singapore, driving the strategic development of existing trade fairs and launching new events in the region. He will also oversee Expolink Global Network Ltd., Koelnmesse’s joint venture, and operational activities in Thailand and Singapore.

At the same time, Michiel Kruse will head Koelnmesse’s Hong Kong office and will also continue managing Koelnmesse’s Chinese offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.

Mathias Küpper was quoted, “Koelnmesse has significantly expanded its portfolio in Asia in recent years, establishing strong positions for leading trade fair brands in dynamic markets. Our goal is to further strengthen regional collaboration and unlock new opportunities for growth alongside our local teams.”

Baidu posts loss in Q3

Beijing, 18th November: Earlier this week, Baidu, the leading Chinese language Internet search provider, released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025. Revenues in the quarter were US$4.4 billion, a decrease of 7% year-on-year. The company posted a net loss of US$1.6 billion in the quarter, compared with a net profit of US$1.1 billion in the third quarter in 2024.

Revenues from Baidu’s core business were US$3.5 billion in the quarter, dropped 7% year-on-year. The majority of those revenues (US$2.2 billion) were generated from its online marketing business, which decreased by 18% year-on-year. However, Baidu’s non-online marketing businesses grew 21% in the same period, reaching at US$1.3 billion. According to the company, the growth was mainly driven by AI Cloud business.

Robin Li, Co-founder and CEO of Baidu, commented, “In the third quarter, we demonstrated AI’s transformative value across our portfolio. AI Cloud maintained solid growth momentum, driven by broadening enterprise adoption of our AI products and solutions. Apollo Go significantly accelerated the scaling of its fully driverless operations and kept advancing global expansion, including entry into Switzerland, all while maintaining industry-leading safety standards. In our Mobile Ecosystem, AI-native monetization products such as agents and digital humans delivered rapid revenue growth, showing strong long-term potential. We will continue pioneering AI innovations that create substantial value for users, enterprises, and society, cementing our leadership in the AI era.”

GCCEC hosts 29 events in first quarter

Gold Coast, 12th November: The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) hosted 29 events, welcoming 85,000 delegates in the first quarter of the financial year 2025-2026, generating an estimated A$131 million (US$85.5 million) in economic impact for the city.

According to GCCEC, the venue posted a growth in conferences and exhibitions from knowledge-based sectors during the quarter. In addition, the venue also served the local community by hosting public events.

Nick Jeffrey, general manager of GCCEC, stated, “A strong first quarter sets the tone for the year ahead, and we’re proud to play our part in showcasing the Gold Coast. Every event hosted brings visitors, opportunities, and investment, creating a lasting legacy well beyond the Centre’s walls.”

Quick takes

150,000 visits at Industrial Fair Network 2025

Industrial Fair Network 2025 (TIFN 2025) concluded at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC), attracting some 150,000 trade visits. Running from 28th to 31st October 2025, the event included nine specialised trade fairs: PTC ASIA, CeMAT ASIA, ComVac ASIA, APEX, E-pack Tech, FBC, Cold Xpo, ISA and Freight Vehicle. Over 3,400 domestic and international enterprises were showcased at the event, occupying an exhibition area of nearly 240,000 m2.

213 exhibitors at ProWine Mumbai 2025

ProWine Mumbai 2025, and India’s wine, spirits and hospitality event, was held at the Jio World Convention Centre, brining a total of 213 exhibitor from 21 countries. Nearly 5,500 trade visitors attended the event, including importers, distributors, retailers, hoteliers, restaurateurs, sommeliers and media.

IEG up 6.3% in revenues

Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) has recently released its interim management statement as of 30th September 2025. Revenues were €191 million (US$224 million), an increase of 6.3% year-on-year. However, profit dropped 23% during the six-month period, down to €16 million (US$19 million). The company attributed the revenue growth to the development of its flagship events and the conference division.

Informa TechTarget releases Q3 performance

Last week, Informa TechTarget released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025, reporting revenues of US$122 million, up 1% year-on-year, which reflected continued robust performance in Intelligence & Advisory and improving momentum in Brand to Demand. In terms net income, the company posted a net loss of US$77 million, compared with a loss of US$20 million in the same quarter in 2024, due to the impact by technical non-cash impairment reflecting difference between market capitalization and book value at the end of Q3.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2025)

Songdo Convensia waits government approval for expansion

Korea, 5th November: Songdo Convensia, a convention centre near Incheon International Airport, plans to expand and build new exhibition halls.

The venue is waiting for the approval from the South Korean government. The new halls will be built next to the existing four, utilising the current open-air space and adjacent parking lot, and the parking lot will be moved underground.

The venue currently has a total exhibition space of 17,021 m2, two ballrooms and 35 meeting rooms.

Sae-rae Jo, assistant manager, exhibition team, Songdo Convensia, stated, “The proposal is done, and we are hopeful that it will be approved because we’re focused on MICE. MICE is the direction the government is moving in, and we aim for the expansion to be ready by 2030.”

Informa’s revenues up 8.7% in first 10 months

London, 11th November: Earlier this week, Informa PLC, the London-listed B2B media group, released its latest trading update, reporting a 6.6% of underlying revenue growth in the first 10 months of 2025.

Informa’s B2B Live Events (Informa Markets, Informa Connect, Informa Festivals) posted an underlying revenue growth of 8.7%. The company attributed the growth reflecting structural market strengths, continuing marketing leading outperformance in IMEA (India, Middle East and Africa), and successful Brand geo-adaptation. Another business, Informa TechTarget, reported to return momentum in underlying revenues, with a positive performance since the half year.

The company also updated its full year guidance: underlying revenue growth of 6%, group revenues of £4 billion (US$5.3 billion), and adjusted earning per share growth of 10%.

Stephen A. Carter, Group Chief Executive, Informa, said, “Informa continues its strong operating performance, delivering further revenue, profit and earnings growth this year and with continuing momentum into next year. Our growth platform is built around the power and rising value of Live Events, and is underpinned by unique specialist B2B Brands, leading positions in growth geographies and categories, proprietary First Party Data and world class talent.”

RX appoints President, Asia Pacific

London, 6th November: International exhibition organiser, RX Global (formerly Reed Exhibitions), has appointed Brian Thomas as its new President, Asia Pacific, succeeding Chien Ee Yeh, who is retiring after servicing RX for 14 years.

Thomas has over 30 years of experience at RX by holding leadership roles across multiple regions. He has overseen RX’s businesses in Australia, Singapore, Korea and Indonesia.

After taking over the new role, Thomas will join RX’s Executive Leadership Team and report directly to CEO, Hugh Jones.

Hugh Jones was quoted, “Brian is a proven leader with deep regional expertise and a strong track record of delivering results. His passion for our business, his collaborative approach, and his commitment to our customers and people make him the ideal person to lead our Asia Pacific operations into the future.  I would also like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Chien Ee for his outstanding contributions and dedication to RX, we wish him happiness and all the very best in his next chapter.”

BOL up 26% in revenues in Q3

Bangkok, 11th November: Business Online (BOL), a leading online information service provider in Thailand, has reported its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025. Revenues in the quarter were US$7.6 million, representing a year-on-year growth of 26%.

The company’s net profit increased by 9.7% over the same quarter last year, reaching US$2.9 million.

The company attributed the increase in revenues to the increase income in information services and data & risk management services. In addition, the company posted a decrease in income tax expenses in the results of profit increase.

The company also releases its results for the nine months ended 30th September, with revenues increased by 13% year-on-year, amounting at US$20 million. Its net profit in the nine-month period was US$7.6 million, representing a rise of 6.1% over the first nine months in 2024. Diluted earnings per share in the reported period were Baht 0.30 (US$0.0093).

Quick takes

Messe Düsseldorf launches REHACARE ASIA 2026

International exhibition organiser, Messe Düsseldorf Asia announced to launch a new trade show focusing on the burgeoning preventive healthcare, rehabilitation, and elder care sectors in Southeast Asia, REHACARE ASIA 2026. The new event will be co-located with MEDICIAL FAIR ASIA and MEDICIAL MANUFACTURING ASIA, running from 9th to 11th September 2026, at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

RAI Amsterdam launches Aquatech Asia

RAI Amsterdam will expand its water technology trade show, Aquatech portfolio, to in Southeast Asia, by launching Aquatech Asia. The new show will be in collaboration with VNU Asia Pacific, will run from 25th to 27th November 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand, bringing together international water experts, technology companies, and policymakers to showcase innovative solutions for urgent regional issues.

Hyve acquires HGAN

London-based Hyve announced the acquisition of Health Grown Advisory Network (HGAN), a U.S.-based platform that connects healthcare innovators with partners and investors. With its expert team and extensive advisor network, HGAN helps companies navigate critical growth factors. According to Hyve, it is the first acquisition that extends the power of its events beyond the show floor.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2025)

2026 UFI Asia-Pacific Conference in Bangkok

Paris/Hong Kong, 4th November: UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, will organise its 2026 UFI Asia-Pacific Conference in Bangkok, Thailand, running from 5th to 6th March.

The 2026 UFI Asia-Pacific Conference will be hosted by the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) and will take place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC).

Dr. Supawan Teerarat, President of TCEB, commented, “TCEB has a long-established and valued relationship with UFI, so we are honoured to host the 2026 UFI Asia-Pacific Conference. Thailand continues to grow as a regional hub for exhibitions, so we are delighted to have the opportunity to showcase Thailand with our world-class venues, professional expertise, and exceptional hospitality to colleagues from across Asia and around the world.”

Registration for the 2026 UFI Asia-Pacific Conference is now open at www.ufiasia.org.

Meorient down in revenues and profits

Hangzhou, 28th October: Last week, Meorient, a Chinese exhibition organiser listed in Shenzhen, announced its financial results for the nine months ended 30th September 2025. Revenues in the period were US$56 million, a year-on-year decrease of 5.7%.

The Hangzhou-based company’s net profit dropped 49% year-on-year, down to US$4.9 million. Diluted earnings per share in the first nine months the year were RMB 0.12 (US$0.017).

However, the company did not comment on the decreases in revenues and profits.

The Shenzhen-listed company also reported its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September. Revenues in the quarter decreased by 2.9% year-on-year, amounting at US$22 million. The company post a net profit of US$2.7 million, dropping 30% year-on-year.

Meorient organises B2B sourcing shows to bring Chinese exhibitors to overseas markets including India, Turkey, U.A.E., Mexico, Poland and Brazil.

Made-in-China.com revenues up 17% in Q3

Nanjing, 28th October: Recently, Shenzhen-listed Focus Technology, which owns and operates the B2B trading platform, Made-in-China.com, has released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th September 2025. Revenues in the quarter were US$68 million, increased 17% over the third quarter of 2024. However, profit in the three-month period declined 2.0% year-on-year, down to US$17 million.

The Nanjing-based company also reported the result for the first nine months of 2025, generating revenues of US$197 million, an increase of 16% year-on-year. The company also post a profit increase of 16% year-on-year, reaching US$58 million. The diluted earnings per share in the nine-month period were RMB 1.3123 (US$0.18).

As of 30th September, the company reported that Made-in-China.com had 29,214 paid members, while “AI Mai” service had 15,687 members.