Top Franchise Expos in China 2027
China remains one of the world's most dynamic markets for franchise expansion and intellectual property licensing, driven by a vast domestic consumer base, rising middle-class spending power, and an increasingly sophisticated retail infrastructure. For investors, master license buyers, and brand owners looking to enter or scale within Greater China, attending the right trade events is one of the most efficient ways to evaluate opportunities, meet verified counterparts, and accelerate deal flow.
In 2027, two major events stand out as essential fixtures in the China franchise and licensing calendar: a large-scale franchise exhibition in Beijing and a dedicated IP licensing trade show in Shanghai. Together, they cover the full spectrum of commercial opportunity — from turnkey franchise systems to entertainment and lifestyle brand partnerships. This guide breaks down what each event offers and how to make the most of your time on the ground.
1. China Franchise Expo – Beijing 2027
Running from 15 to 18 April 2027 at the China National Convention Center (CNCC) in Beijing, China Franchise Expo 2027 is Asia's largest franchise exhibition. With 1,500 exhibitors and an expected 60,000 attendees, the event brings together thousands of Chinese and international franchise brands under one roof, targeting prospective franchisees, master license buyers, and investors across Greater China and the broader Asia region. It is the definitive annual gathering for anyone conducting due diligence on franchise entry points into the Chinese market.
Why attend: With 1,500 exhibitors and 60,000 expected attendees, this is the single highest-density environment in Asia for comparing franchise investment opportunities and meeting brand principals face to face.
Dates, venue & tickets for China Franchise Expo – Beijing 2027 →
2. Licensing Expo China 2027
Held from 3 to 5 March 2027 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC), Licensing Expo China 2027 is Asia's leading licensing trade event. The show connects international IP owners and licensors with Chinese manufacturers, retailers, and distributors across entertainment, fashion, sports, and lifestyle categories. With 500 exhibitors and 18,000 expected attendees, it is a focused, high-quality environment purpose-built for deal-making between global rights holders and China's vast production and retail ecosystem.
Why attend: For IP owners and brand licensors seeking vetted Chinese manufacturing or retail partners, this is the most targeted licensing marketplace in Asia, delivering direct access to 500 exhibitors across high-growth consumer categories.
Tips for attending
- Sequence your trip strategically — Licensing Expo China in Shanghai runs in early March, giving you time to close initial IP conversations before the April Beijing franchise expo, allowing you to cross-reference brand and licensing opportunities within a single quarterly trip.
- Prepare a Chinese-language investment brief before arriving: most serious franchisee and licensee prospects at both events will conduct preliminary screening in Mandarin, and having localised materials ready signals commitment to the market and accelerates trust-building.
- Prioritise pre-scheduled meetings over walk-the-floor networking — both events attract tens of thousands of attendees, so use exhibitor directories and official matchmaking platforms in advance to lock in appointments with shortlisted brands or licensors before the halls open.
- Factor legal and regulatory due diligence into your post-show timeline: China's franchise disclosure requirements and IP licensing registration processes have specific statutory steps, so engage a locally qualified commercial lawyer before signing any heads of terms discussed at either event.
Final word
China's 2027 franchise and licensing expo calendar offers investors and brand owners two complementary, high-calibre events that together cover the full commercial landscape — from franchise system investment in Beijing to IP partnership origination in Shanghai. Attending both with a clear strategic brief and pre-arranged meetings will maximise return on the time and capital committed. Used correctly, these events can compress months of market research and relationship-building into a single, well-planned quarter.
Frequently asked questions
When is the next franchise expo in China?
The next franchise expo in China is China Franchise Expo – Beijing 2027, taking place 15 April 2027 – 18 April 2027 at China National Convention Center (CNCC), Beijing, China.
How many franchise expos are coming up in China?
World Franchise Forum currently lists 2 upcoming franchise & licensing shows in China, in cities including Beijing, Shanghai. The directory is refreshed weekly using AI-powered web research.
What is the biggest franchise expo in China?
Based on expected attendance, China Franchise Expo – Beijing 2027 in Beijing is the largest upcoming franchise show in China, with around 60,000 attendees and 1,500 exhibiting brands.
Which cities host franchise expos in China?
Upcoming franchise expos in China are being held in Beijing, Shanghai.
What types of franchise shows are held in China?
Shows in China cover Business Services, Licensing — from multi-sector franchise expos to specialist brand licensing and master-franchise events.
How do I get tickets or book a stall at a franchise expo?
Open any show on World Franchise Forum and verify your email to access the organiser's official registration, ticket and exhibitor links, plus contact details for visitor and stall bookings.
Are franchise expos worth attending for investors?
Yes — franchise expos let investors meet many franchisors in one place, compare investment ranges, attend seminars on franchising and licensing, and negotiate master-franchise or multi-unit deals face to face.
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