Le mie impressioni sulla China Elevator Expo...

di Cem Kapukaya

Ciao a tutti,

In questo post vorrei condividere le mie osservazioni sul WEE Expo 2026 di Guangzhou, in Cina, un evento che ho visitato di persona, e discutere dell'impatto del settore degli ascensori in Cina, un argomento di cui tutti abbiamo parlato e commentato, e su cui ognuno ha la propria opinione.

Starting with the exhibition hall, the word "large" doesn’t do this fair justice — it’s massive. The stands, the visual displays at the stands, the variety of products and the technical details all made for an incredible visual spectacle at this fair.

The products at the fair were impressive both technologically and visually. Massive elevator doors, multi-functional floor and cabin buttons with stunning visual appeal, outdoor elevators capable of operating in the rain, cabins with interiors so exquisite we couldn’t bear to touch them, and incredibly stylish home elevators. Each detail, each feature, was designed to captivate visitors. And they succeeded. All the booths were packed, and sales agreements were being finalized with customers engaged in intense price negotiations.

Most of the visitors were well-informed and arrived with orders in hand. Everyone was meeting with companies they knew they could work with and that would provide value.

Following the contraction of the elevator market in China, the need for new markets for so many manufacturers has led them to adopt a more optimistic and sales-focused approach toward international visitors, which in turn has sparked intense competition. We also saw more than enough elevators and equipment compliant with European standards — a region they hadn’t previously prioritized — at this fair. It was clear from all their products that they had done their homework thoroughly.

The Chinese participants were commendable not only for their diligence but also for their politeness and courteous behavior towards each other, their guests, and their customers. We spent a wonderful week both at the fair and in daily life outside the fair with this incredibly respectful and tolerant group of people. I was also very happy to have the chance to ride an elevator traveling at 14 m/s up a 100-story building standing 438 m tall — a first in my life. These guys really delivered… (IFC / Guangzhou International Trade Center). Seeing the country's development beyond the elevator industry also gives a glimpse into what this nation is capable of in the future. The People's Republic of China, which is rapidly adapting to technology, will possess the power to fundamentally shift global balances in the near future.

In my personal opinion, this visit was very productive — it made me realize why I hadn't come sooner, but by coming now, I was able to witness the technology and the success story of where they've reached. I hope everyone in the elevator industry will visit the China Elevator Fair at least once in their lifetime.

Finally, speaking on behalf of the industry: Competing with China will be extremely challenging in the coming years. Instead of competing, if opportunities for partnership or investment from China are possible, it would be wiser to explore those avenues. Chinese companies are targeting European markets, and Türkiye will be the easiest gateway to those markets. If we cannot form partnerships, and they come here to start production directly, then elevator manufacturers — who are already facing difficulties — will find themselves in an even more challenging situation.

Cordiali saluti ...