The 2024 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) concluded just as the Mid-Autumn Festival approached, with international exhibitors and attendees from 80 countries and regions gathering at the Beijing Shougang Park. Among the diverse range of exhibits, the sports service section showcased the latest achievements in international sports events, ice and snow sports, and emerging sports trends, attracting numerous visitors.
A Global Showcase of Sports Innovation
The exhibition featured over 300 brands from 30 countries and regions, including leading international companies like the Italian company TITAN Ice & Snow (天冰), which has been a consistent participant in the fair for five years. TITAN Ice & Snow’s market director for China, Shen Yumei, highlighted the company’s sustainable development and innovative technologies, particularly its snow-making machines capable of operating at temperatures as high as 30°C.
Through the CIFTIS platform, we have established valuable partnerships and gained greater visibility from government officials, business leaders, and consumers, Shen Yumei stated. This year, we aim to emphasize our sustainability and innovation efforts, such as our advanced snow-making technology that can function in high temperatures.
The Rising Ice and Snow Market in China
Shen Yumei expressed optimism about the future of the Chinese ice and snow market. The Beijing Winter Olympics have sparked a nationwide enthusiasm for winter sports, leading to the establishment of numerous ski resorts and ice rinks across the country, she said. More people are now engaging in activities such as skating, skiing, and ice hockey, and the popularity of ice and snow tourism is on the rise.
Since the Beijing Winter Olympics, TITAN Ice & Snow has continued to strengthen its presence in the Chinese market and plans to build its fourth global equipment center in China. There is a growing demand for professional ice and snow equipment and services, as well as the use of technology to enhance the experience of winter sports, Shen Yumei noted. We believe there are significant market opportunities in this area.
France’s Presence and the Future of Surfing in China
France, as the main guest country at this year’s CIFTIS, brought a diverse array of companies and showcased its potential in various sports. Mokhun Chen, the president of the France-Belt and Road Promotion Association, expressed that the CIFTIS provided an invaluable platform for connecting with potential partners and investors.
Through the CIFTIS, we have found new partners and gained more attention from the government and media, Chen stated. The development of surfing in China is thriving, with a large number of participants, especially in places like Wanning and Sanya in Hainan.
Chen also highlighted the potential for collaboration between France and China in the field of surfing. There is a vast space for cooperation in this area, he said. We are working on establishing a joint ecological surfing park in China, and we plan to provide surfing training for beginners and coaches, and to promote surfing culture and events.
The Future of Snooker in China
Jason Ferguson, the president of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, discussed the growing popularity of snooker in China. Snooker is booming in China, with Chinese players performing exceptionally well in international tournaments, and new talents emerging every year, Ferguson stated.
Ferguson emphasized the importance of promoting the sport at the grassroots level and the role of collaboration between the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association and the Chinese Billiards Association. Sports have the unique ability to transcend boundaries and unite people. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with China to engage more young people in this beneficial sport, he concluded.
Conclusion
The CIFTIS provides a platform for international companies to showcase their innovations and connect with potential partners and customers. As China continues to develop its sports industry, these collaborations are expected to drive growth and innovation in various sports sectors.
Views: 0