GUANGDONG, China — The Plastics Industry Association’s NPE2021, A TSE Gold 100 show that had been scheduled for May 17-21 in Orlando, had to cancel due to COVID-19 considerations, but Chinaplas21, the 34th International Exhibition on Plastics and Rubber Industries, is moving forward this week at the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Center in Guangdong, China as an in-person/digital hybrid event. With temperature checks, mask protocols, and other safety precautions in place, it will be the first large show for the plastics industry of 2021.
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As has been the case with other shows held in China since the pandemic began, it will likely be more of a domestic affair, with continued international travel issues expected to reduce the number of international visitors and exhibitors, according to Plastics News. Residents of the People’s Republic of China must be able to show a resident identity card and a Green Health Code. In addition to a visa or travel permit, international travelers must also provide a negative COVID-19 result from a test taken within 48 hours of departure for Mainland China, complete a health declaration form, and undergo a 14-day quarantine upon arrival in China.
The show organizers expect the same number of exhibitors — 3,600 companies — as the show drew in 2020, though time will tell if it can reach the 160,000-attendee number it attracted last year. The show includes 19 “theme zones” to make it easier for buyers to locate specific types of suppliers.
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The show is offering a digital streaming platform for those who can’t make the in-person event. For exhibitors, the organizers offer an “Exhibitor Zone” where they can access latest show news, the exhibitors’ manual, tips for show participation, and exclusive services such as “MyCustomerFirst Services” and various promotional tools.
