Global exhibition industry set for record-breaking growth in 2026

The global exhibition industry is poised for robust growth in 2026, with market value projected to reach US$36.31 billion, supported by rising business confidence, expanding venue capacity and rapid technology adoption. As organisers integrate AI, VR and digital platforms to deliver immersive, personalised experiences, the sector is also reaffirming the irreplaceable value of face-to-face engagement and high-impact networking.

Strong momentum across North America and Asia-Pacific, sustained investments in modern, sustainable venues, and the rapid expansion of digital and hybrid exhibitions are setting the stage for a record-setting year, reinforcing exhibitions as a critical engine for business growth, innovation and global collaboration

The global exhibition industry in 2026 is poised for significant growth, driven by strong economic confidence, tech integration (AI, VR), and a shift towards immersive, experience-based events across key sectors like IT, healthcare, and manufacturing, with major shows planned in India, the UAE, and globally, focusing on innovation and high-value networking.

Expect increased use of technology for personalization, greater emphasis on sustainability, and stronger collaborations for enhanced attendee value.

2026 is predicted to be a record-setting year, with a powerful runway for large-scale shows, driven by rising participation and technological advancements transforming how businesses connect and innovate.

The global exhibition industry's key statistics for 2026 project continued growth and recovery, with the market value expected to reach approximately US$36.31 billion. The sector is focusing on digital integration, sustainability, and hybrid events while emphasizing the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interactions.

The global exhibition market is expected to grow to US$36.31 billion by the end of 2026, expanding at a CAGR of 12.96% from 2022. The industry's growth is driven by rising business travel, increasing online and hybrid events, and the use of exhibitions as a crucial marketing tool.

The industry in 2026 is defined by five key trends: the primary importance of human connection, integrating technology and AI for deeper experiences, a central focus on sustainability, the need for business resilience in an uncertain world, and a sharp focus on return on investment (ROI) amid rising costs.

The digital exhibition segment is a major growth area, projected to expand at the highest CAGR of approximately 23% as companies adopt cloud-based solutions and AI for better experiences.

North America is anticipated to maintain its lead in the market during the forecast period, while the Asia-Pacific region is also expected to hold a significant share due to the growing number of exhibition centers and developing economies.

In 2024, the global exhibition industry saw 4.7 million exhibiting companies welcoming 318 million visitors, generating about €150 billion in direct output and a total economic impact of €368 billion across host countries and territories, supporting 4.3 million full-time jobs.

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.

The 2025 UFI World Map of Exhibition Venues provides detailed insights for these 22 markets: Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Beyond global and regional data, the report provides detailed profiles of 22 markets that each offer more than 300,000 sqm of gross indoor exhibition space — delivering an authoritative benchmark for industry planning and development.

UFI CEO and Managing Director Chris Skeith OBE says: “Exhibition venues are a key component of our industry’s growth, and this year’s World Map once again highlights just how dynamic this landscape has become. The Asia-Pacific region continues to outpace Europe in total exhibition space for the second consecutive year — a sign of shifting global momentum. The ongoing investment in venue development worldwide reflects the industry’s confidence in the future of face-to-face business.”

Jochen Witt, President and CEO of jwc GmbH, adds: “The steady expansion of venue capacity demonstrates the resilience and long-term confidence driving the exhibition industry globally. By capturing these developments, this report highlights where new opportunities are emerging and how investments in modern infrastructure are shaping the future of exhibitions across all regions.”

This global census covers all exhibition venues with a minimum of 5,000 sqm of gross indoor exhibition space as of the end of 2024. Key findings include:

Asia-Pacific now accounts for 38.1% of global venue capacity, surpassing Europe (36.3%) for the second consecutive year. North America ranks third with 17.2%.

China maintains its position as the world’s largest exhibition market, representing 30.9% of total venue capacity, followed by the USA (14.3%) and Germany (7.1%). Together, the top five markets — China, USA, Germany, Italy, and France — represent 4% of global indoor exhibition space.

More than 310 trade fairs will be held in Germany in 2025, including more than a dozen new events on topics such as care, energy, and construction. German trade fair venues are planning to invest heavily in modernising and developing their infrastructures by 2029.

The aim is to improve the service for exhibiting companies and visitors and to fulfill sustainability goals and high digital standards.