Published by ChinaMNC · Duilongdeqing

What the 2026 World Intelligent Manufacturing Conference Means for Foreign Founders in China

A practical guide for foreign founders on the upcoming 2026 World Intelligent Manufacturing Conference in Nanjing, highlighting opportunities in smart manufacturing, AI, and industrial digitalization, and how to leverage them for company registration and operations in China.

2026 World Intelligent Manufacturing Conference: A Gateway for Foreign Founders

Foreign founders looking to establish or expand operations in China’s advanced manufacturing and technology sectors should note a key event on the horizon: the 2026 World Intelligent Manufacturing Conference. Approved by China’s State Council, the conference will take place from November 19 to 21 in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. It is co-hosted by the Jiangsu Provincial People’s Government and the International Intelligent Manufacturing Alliance. For foreign entrepreneurs, this gathering offers more than just industry insights—it is a chance to connect with the ecosystem that is shaping China’s “AI + Manufacturing” future.

Event Overview and Structure

According to a press conference held on October 27, the conference will feature one main thematic session, more than 10 specialized activities, and nearly 30 industrial ecosystem conferences. This multi-layered format combines high-level forums, achievement releases, frontier exhibitions, and industry matchmaking. Such a structure provides foreign founders with multiple entry points—whether you are seeking partners, scouting technology trends, or looking to showcase your own solutions.

Key Highlights and Opportunities

The conference will release several significant outputs, including:

• Lighthouse-level smart factory construction achievements—insights into China’s most advanced manufacturing facilities.
• 2026 World and China Top 10 Smart Manufacturing Science and Technology Advances—a look at cutting-edge innovations.
• Series of research reports from the National Intelligent Manufacturing Expert Committee—authoritative guidance on industry trends.

In addition, innovative results such as lighthouse and excellence-level smart factories, industrial datasets, large model algorithms, and industrial world model generators will be showcased. These exhibits illustrate how next-generation smart manufacturing is moving from theoretical exploration to practical implementation—a vital signal for foreign founders in AI, robotics, and industrial software.

Jiangsu’s Industrial Ecosystem: A Testbed for Foreign Innovation

Jiangsu Province, where the conference is held, offers a robust backdrop for foreign businesses. The province has:

• 28,000 enterprises with open industrial scenarios.
• 27 national AI typical cases.
• Provided transformation diagnosis services to over 19,000 enterprises.

These figures underscore Jiangsu’s practical experience in industrial digitalization. For foreign founders, this means access to a large pool of potential partners and customers who are actively adopting smart manufacturing solutions.

Conference Focus Areas and Practical Takeaways

The conference will facilitate in-depth exchanges among academicians, experts, and industry leaders on topics such as:

• Iterative upgrading of smart factories.
• Key equipment technology breakthroughs.
• Implementation of domain-specific large models.
• Capacity building for service providers.

These discussions aim to address the real pain points of enterprise digital transformation and distill replicable technical solutions and implementation models. For foreign founders, these sessions can provide actionable insights into the Chinese market’s needs and preferences, helping you tailor your products or services accordingly.

International Participation

A dedicated International Special Exhibition Area will be set up, attracting enterprises from countries such as Germany and Switzerland. This is a tangible platform for international exchange and cooperation. Foreign founders can use this opportunity to network with global peers and showcase their own innovations to a Chinese audience.

How Foreign Founders Can Leverage the Conference

If you are considering registering a company in China or have already done so, the conference offers several avenues:

• Market Research: Understand the latest trends and technologies in smart manufacturing and AI.
• Networking: Connect with potential partners, customers, and government officials.
• Visibility: Participate as an exhibitor or speaker to raise your profile.
• Policy Insights: Learn about China’s direction in “AI + Manufacturing” and align your business strategy.

However, attending the conference is just one step. Setting up a legal entity, navigating regulations, and understanding local incentives are critical for long-term success. This is where professional guidance can make a difference.

Next Steps for Foreign Founders

The 2026 World Intelligent Manufacturing Conference is a window into China’s industrial future. For foreign founders, it is an opportunity to be part of that future. Whether you are in software, hardware, or services, the convergence of AI and manufacturing presents vast possibilities.

To make the most of this opportunity, consider engaging with experts who can help you register your company, understand compliance requirements, and connect with the local ecosystem. ChinaMNC specializes in assisting foreign founders with company registration and ongoing operations in China.

Call to Action: Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.