Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
Interfoam China 2026 is Asia's leading business and networking platform for the foam industry. This event combines a curated exhibition space with tailored supply-demand matching services, enabling buyers to efficiently source top-tier suppliers and enhance product quality.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with manufacturers, brands, and technical experts, fostering valuable partnerships and business connections. Interfoam China 2026 takes place in Shanghai, China.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: Interfoam China 2026 runs from December 9-11, 2026 at Shanghai New International Expo Centre.
- 2Scale and Focus: This leading exhibition showcases innovations in foam materials and technologies, attracting over 300 exhibitors.
- 3Organiser: The event is organised by Comexposium Seven HJT Exhibition (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
- 4Buyer Authority: Key attendees include manufacturers, brands, suppliers, and academia from the foam industry.
- 5Entry: Free registration is available online for trade visitors.
Why visit
Attendees will gain insights into the latest innovations in foam materials and technologies. The event provides a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders and explore new products. Visitors can participate in concurrent conferences featuring expert lectures and discussions on advancements in foam technology.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will showcase their latest products and technologies to a targeted audience of industry professionals. The event offers a platform for generating leads, building brand visibility, and establishing strategic partnerships. Participating in Interfoam China 2026 will enhance exhibitors' market presence in the growing foam materials sector.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Flexible and rigid polyurethane foam producers and foam converters
Mattress, bedding and upholstered furniture manufacturers sourcing slabstock, molded foam and rebonded foam
Automotive interior, seating and NVH Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers evaluating foam formulations and composites
Construction, insulation panel and refrigeration equipment makers using rigid PU and PIR foam
Packaging engineers and appliance or electronics OEMs specifying protective PE, EVA and PU foam inserts
Silicone, EPDM, PE and specialty foam molders for industrial, sealing and transport applications
Procurement and supply-chain managers for isocyanates, polyols, blowing agents, catalysts and flame retardants
R&D and materials scientists working on foam chemistry, testing, emissions and recycling
Distributors and trading companies serving China and Asia-Pacific foam markets
Recycling, cutting and automation engineers upgrading foam production and converting lines
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Flexible polyurethane slabstock and molded foam producers
Rigid PU and PIR insulation board, panel and block manufacturers
Silicone foam and specialty elastomer foam producers
Foam processing machinery suppliers: foaming lines, high-pressure mixing, CNC contour cutters, lamination and thermoforming
Raw material suppliers for polyols, isocyanates such as TDI and MDI, catalysts, surfactants, flame retardants and blowing agents
Foam recycling, rebonding and trim-reduction technology providers
Testing and quality-control equipment suppliers for density, hardness, compression set, flammability and emissions
Adhesives, coatings, fabrics and fire-blocking layers for foam composites
Foam converters offering cutting, profiling, welding and finished-component assembly
Consultants, certification bodies and industry associations serving foam manufacturers
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Flexible polyurethane slabstock and molded foam for mattresses, furniture and automotive seating
Rigid polyurethane and PIR foam for insulation boards, panels, refrigeration and construction
Silicone foam, EPDM, EVA, PE and other specialty foam materials
Foaming machinery and complete production lines for slabstock, molding and high-pressure mixing
Cutting, CNC contouring, lamination, thermoforming and foam converting equipment
Raw materials and additives: polyols, isocyanates, catalysts, surfactants, flame retardants and blowing agents
Foam recycling, rebonding and end-of-life processing technologies
Testing instruments for foam density, hardness, compression set, flammability and durability
Foam composites with textiles, adhesives, films and fire-blocking layers
Rebonded foam and carpet underlay production technology
Automotive foam components including seating, headrests, acoustic parts and energy-absorbing inserts
Packaging foam, protective inserts and custom-molded cushioning
Location & Facilities
Venue
Shanghai New International Expo Centre
No.2345 Longyang Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai, China
Facilities
Parking
Shanghai New International Expo Centre in Shanghai typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Shanghai New International Expo Centre in Shanghai typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Shanghai New International Expo Centre for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Free registration
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Shanghai, China
Why it matters
On 2026-12-09 to 2026-12-11, Interfoam China 2026 in Shanghai covering Polyurethane and silicone foams, Foaming equipment and machinery, Raw materials and additives for foaming, Recycling tec gives trade buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · CNY
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport
Shanghai's main long-haul gateway, located east of the city in Pudong. Metro Line 2 and the Maglev connect the airport with the urban network; allow 45-60 min by road to SNIEC in normal traffic and more at peak times
to venue
Approx. 45-60 min by road (estimate; confirm at travel time)
by car
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport
Domestic and regional airport west of the city; Metro Lines 2 and 10 serve the terminals. Allow 45-60 min by road to SNIEC and longer in peak traffic
to venue
Approx. 45-60 min by road (estimate; confirm at travel time)
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Shanghai Marriott Hotel Parkview
5-star
Pudong (city listing)USD 230–265 / night
Guest rating 4.4 on Google Hotels; amenities include breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, indoor pool, fitness centre, bar and restaurant.
Renaissance Shanghai Pudong
5-star
PudongUSD 230–265 / night
Guest rating 4.2; amenities listed include breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, indoor pool, hot tub, spa, fitness centre and air conditioning.
Shanghai Marriott Hotel City Centre
5-star
City centreUSD 230–265 / night
5-star property with breakfast, free Wi-Fi, parking, indoor pool, fitness centre, spa and bar; guest reviews highlight a 25 m lap pool, gym and saunas.
Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao
4-star
HongqiaoUSD 150–190 / night
4-star option on the Hongqiao side of the city, convenient if arriving at Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA); allow extra time for the cross-city trip to SNIEC.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
metro / maglev
Estimated costApprox. CNY 7 metro (Line 2) or CNY 50 Maglev single journey; confirm current fares at the station
Best forShanghai Pudong (PVG) to central Shanghai
Metro Line 2 runs from PVG into the city. The Maglev runs to Longyang Road, where you can transfer to Line 2 or Line 7 for SNIEC.
airport shuttle bus
Estimated costApprox. CNY 20-30 single journey; confirm route and fare
Best forShanghai Pudong (PVG) to central Shanghai
Dedicated airport bus lines, including night services, link PVG with downtown Shanghai and major hotel areas. Travel time varies with traffic.
taxi / ride-hailing
Estimated costApprox. CNY 170-230 metered taxi plus expressway tolls; confirm with the driver
Best forShanghai Pudong (PVG) to Shanghai New International Expo Centre
Metered taxi or Didi; journey time depends on traffic on the elevated ring roads. Use the official taxi queue at the terminal.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. CNY 100-150 metered taxi; confirm meter and route
Best forShanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) to Shanghai New International Expo Centre
Hongqiao is west of the city and SNIEC is in Pudong, so allow 45-60 minutes by road in normal traffic.
metro
Estimated costApprox. CNY 4-6 single metro journey; fares are distance-based
Best forHuamu Road (Line 7) to People's Square
Line 7 connects Huamu Road station at SNIEC with the city centre. Allow 25-35 minutes to People's Square.
ride-hailing
Estimated costApprox. CNY 30-70 for a short Didi trip within Pudong; surge pricing may apply
Best forShort trips within Pudong
Didi is widely used in Shanghai and has an English interface. Pickup points at SNIEC and hotels are usually signposted.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. CNY 60-90 metered taxi; confirm meter and traffic conditions
Best forPeople's Square to Shanghai New International Expo Centre
A cross-river taxi trip from the city centre to Pudong. Allow extra time during morning and evening peaks.
airport night bus
Estimated costApprox. CNY 20-30 single journey; confirm night route and fare
Best forShanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) to Shanghai New International Expo Centre
Night bus services can be useful for late arrivals when the metro is closed. Check the current route map at the airport.
Weather
Early December in Shanghai is cool and damp: daytime highs typically 8-12°C and nights 2-6°C. These are climatological averages, not a forecast, so check the forecast before departure. December is one of the drier months, but cold drizzle is possible. Air quality varies; the captured Open-Meteo forecast showed moderate US AQI around 87 with PM2.5 at about 24.0 micrograms per cubic metre, but this is a public forecast rather than on-site measurement. Sensitive visitors should check local advisories. Exhibition halls are indoor spaces, so weather mainly affects transport and walking between halls.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
China uses a 220V/50Hz supply with plug types A, C and I; bring a universal adapter for laptops and phones. Local SIM cards and eSIMs are sold at PVG, and SNIEC plus most hotels provide Wi-Fi, but some foreign apps and services may require a VPN arranged before departure. Keep a Chinese translation of your hotel address for taxi drivers. Mobile payment through Alipay or WeChat Pay is standard, so link an international card before travel and keep some CNY cash as backup.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Business language
Mandarin is the main business language in Shanghai. Many exhibitors have English-speaking staff, but a Chinese translation of your product names and company profile helps at the stand.
Greetings and business cards
Exchange business cards with both hands and take a moment to read the card before putting it away. A handshake is common in international business settings.
Payments
Mobile payment through Alipay and WeChat Pay is standard. Link an international card before travel and keep some CNY cash for small vendors or taxi rides.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in taxis or restaurants. Service charges may already appear on hotel and restaurant bills.
Dress and weather
December is cold and damp, so business casual with a warm coat works for exhibition halls and evening meetings. Comfortable shoes matter for long days on concrete floors.
Punctuality and traffic
Shanghai's road network is busy during morning and evening peaks. Allow extra time for security checks, taxi queues and the walk from metro stations to the halls.
Dietary needs
Larger hotels and venues can usually accommodate dietary requests if advised in advance. Carry a translation card for allergies if your requirements are strict.
Public holidays
Check China's public holiday calendar around your travel dates. December is generally outside the main holiday peaks, but New Year travel builds late in the month.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: PVG
Sample round-trip economy fares captured for 9 December 2026 departures and 13 December 2026 returns, priced in CNY for one adult including taxes: Tokyo (NRT) from CNY 2,351, Singapore (SIN) from CNY 2,119, Dubai (DXB) from CNY 4,756, London (LHR) from CNY 5,112, New York (JFK) from CNY 6,155 and Sydney (SYD) from CNY 6,202. These are search-capture examples, not live quotes. Book PVG for the widest long-haul choice; SHA can be convenient for domestic connections. December is not a major Chinese holiday peak, but fares rise closer to the date.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): Approx. 45-60 min by road (estimate; confirm at travel time); Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA): Approx. 45-60 min by road (estimate; confirm at travel time). Allow road or rail time to Shanghai New International Expo Centre; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Shanghai New International Expo Centre: Pudong (city listing): Shanghai Marriott Hotel Parkview; Pudong: Renaissance Shanghai Pudong; City centre: Shanghai Marriott Hotel City Centre.
Ride-hail: Didi is the main ride-hailing app in Shanghai and offers an English interface. International cards can sometimes be linked through Alipay or WeChat, so set up payment before leaving the airport. Pickup points at PVG and SNIEC are signposted, and drivers may ask for the destination in Chinese. Allow extra time at peak hours and avoid unlicensed drivers who approach you inside terminals.
Public transit: SNIEC is served by Metro Line 7 at Huamu Road station and by Line 2 at Longyang Road, which is also the Maglev terminus. Fares are distance-based, approximately CNY 3-6 for central trips and about CNY 7 from PVG. Use a Shanghai transport card or the metro QR code in Alipay or WeChat. Confirm first and last train times for late show days.
Parking: SNIEC has on-site car parks, but rates and hall access are set by the venue and can change during large shows. Confirm current tariffs with the venue or organiser before driving. Drop-off zones can be congested at opening time, and hotel parking should be reserved in advance if you are staying outside the fairground area.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: December 2026 (early winter)
Temperature: Approx. 2-12°C: daytime highs around 8-12°C and nights around 2-6°C. These are climatological averages, not a forecast; check the forecast before departure.
Seasonality: December is one of Shanghai's drier months, but cold drizzle and damp air are still possible. The show is indoors, so rain gear matters mainly for transport and walking between halls.
Packing: Pack layers, a warm coat, a compact umbrella and comfortable shoes for long days on concrete floors. Bring a universal power adapter for China's 220V supply and plug types A, C and I, plus business cards for stand meetings.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at Interfoam China 2026 usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
Day 14
Confirm your visitor registration on interfoam.cn and save any confirmation email or QR code.
Day 14
Book flights into Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) and reserve a hotel in Pudong near SNIEC or in the city centre.
Day 12
Check Chinese visa or visa-free transit eligibility with the embassy, consulate or official immigration sources; request an invitation letter if required.
Day 12
Arrange travel insurance and check that your passport has sufficient validity for China entry.
Day 10
Build a shortlist of exhibitors by product category: flexible foam, rigid insulation, silicone foam, machinery, raw materials, testing and recycling.
Day 10
Download a hall map when the organiser publishes it and mark priority stands and conference sessions.
Day 7
Request meetings with key suppliers and confirm who from your team will attend each appointment.
Day 7
Set up mobile data with an eSIM or local SIM plan and check whether your phone and apps will work in China.
Day 7
Link an international card to Alipay or WeChat Pay if possible, and keep some CNY cash for small payments.
Day 5
Save the venue address in Chinese for taxi drivers and print hotel and flight confirmations.
Day 3
Pack business cards, comfortable shoes, layers, a warm coat and a compact umbrella.
Day 3
Carry a universal power adapter for China's 220V supply and plug types A, C and I.
Day 1
Arrive early on the first show day for badge collection and security screening; allow 45-60 minutes from PVG by road.
T-14
Each show day: Carry your passport for identity checks and keep digital copies of travel documents.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Shanghai New International Expo Centre
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2Interfoam China 2026 registration concourse
Shanghai New International Expo Centre
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Shanghai New International Expo Centre
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nightsCN¥190.00
- Per diem × 2CN¥150.00
Estimated totalCN¥340.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether Interfoam China 2026 fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For Interfoam China 2026, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Polyurethane and silicone foams and Foaming equipment and machinery solutions and benchmarking suppliers at Interfoam China 2026 in Shanghai.
Min. budget
$4,857.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Polyurethane and silicone foams and Foaming equipment and machinery products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$21,856.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Shanghai show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is Interfoam Shanghai 2026?
Interfoam Shanghai is a trade exhibition focused on foam materials, foam processing equipment and foam applications. The 2026 edition is scheduled for 9-11 December 2026 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC), connecting foam producers, converters, raw-material suppliers and machinery makers with buyers from furniture, bedding, automotive, construction, packaging and industrial sectors.
When and where does Interfoam Shanghai 2026 take place?
The show runs from 9 December to 11 December 2026 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC) in Pudong, Shanghai. Use the official organiser site interfoam.cn to confirm hall allocation and opening hours before travelling.
Who exhibits at Interfoam Shanghai?
Exhibitors typically include flexible and rigid foam producers, silicone and specialty foam makers, foaming and cutting machinery suppliers, raw-material and additives companies, recycling technology providers, testing equipment suppliers and foam converters. Check the official exhibitor list for the 2026 edition when it is published.
Who should visit Interfoam Shanghai?
The show is relevant for mattress and furniture manufacturers, automotive interior suppliers, construction insulation producers, packaging engineers, appliance OEMs, foam converters, procurement teams buying chemicals and machinery, and R&D staff working on foam formulation, testing or recycling.
Is Interfoam Shanghai open to the public or trade only?
Interfoam Shanghai is positioned as a business-to-business trade exhibition. Visitor eligibility and any trade-only requirements are set by the organiser, so check the registration page on interfoam.cn before booking travel.
How do I register as a visitor?
Visitor registration is handled through the official organiser site interfoam.cn. Pre-registration is normally advisable, but this listing does not confirm registration deadlines or badge prices. Follow the organiser instructions and carry your passport or ID for onsite checks.
How do I get from Shanghai Pudong airport to SNIEC?
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is the main long-haul gateway. Metro Line 2 and the Maglev connect the airport with the city, with transfers to Line 7 for Huamu Road station at SNIEC. A metered taxi or Didi trip takes roughly 45-60 minutes in normal traffic and costs approximately CNY 170-230, depending on tolls and traffic; confirm live fares before travel.
Can I apply for a stand at Interfoam Shanghai?
Exhibitor applications are managed by the organiser. Booth prices, hall availability and stand regulations are not published in this listing. Contact the organiser through interfoam.cn for the current exhibitor manual and contracting terms.
Do I need a visa to attend Interfoam Shanghai?
Most foreign business visitors need a Chinese visa before travel, although visa-free transit arrangements exist for eligible nationalities and itineraries. Check the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country and the National Immigration Administration for current rules. A show badge is not a visa.
What is the weather like in Shanghai in December?
Early December in Shanghai is cool and damp, with typical daytime highs around 8-12°C and nights around 2-6°C. December is one of the drier months, but cold drizzle is possible. Pack layers, a warm coat and a compact umbrella for the walk between transport and the halls.
Where can I find the show programme?
The organiser lists a schedule page at interfoam.cn/schedule. Session times and speaker lists were not captured in this listing, so check the official page before planning your day.
Which airport should I book for SNIEC?
Book Shanghai Pudong (PVG) for the widest choice of long-haul flights. Shanghai Hongqiao (SHA) can be convenient for domestic and regional connections, but it is on the opposite side of the city from SNIEC. Allow 45-60 minutes by road or metro plus transfer from either airport.
Glossary
- Polyurethane (PU) foam
- A polymer foam made by reacting isocyanates with polyols. Formulations can produce flexible, rigid or semi-rigid foams for bedding, furniture, automotive, insulation and packaging.
- Flexible PU foam
- An open-cell foam that recovers after compression, used in mattresses, seating, upholstery and protective packaging.
- Rigid PU and PIR foam
- Closed-cell foams with high insulation value, used in construction panels, refrigeration equipment and appliance insulation.
- Slabstock foam
- Continuous blocks of flexible foam produced on a foaming line, later cut into sheets, rolls or profiles.
- Molded foam
- Foam poured or injected into a shaped mold to form seat cushions, headrests and other contoured components.
- Isocyanate
- A reactive chemical component, commonly TDI or MDI, used with polyols to produce polyurethane foam. Handling requires industrial safety controls.
- Polyol
- A polyalcohol resin that reacts with isocyanate. Polyol selection influences foam hardness, flexibility, reactivity and processing.
- Blowing agent
- A substance that generates gas to expand foam. Physical and chemical blowing agents affect density, insulation performance and environmental profile.
- Foam density
- Mass per unit volume, usually expressed in kg/m3. Density is a key specification that influences strength, feel, insulation and cost.
- Compression set
- The permanent deformation left after a foam sample is compressed for a set time and temperature. Lower values indicate better recovery.
- Indentation force deflection (IFD)
- A measure of the force needed to compress flexible foam by a defined percentage, used to grade mattress and seating firmness.
- Foam converter
- A processor that cuts, laminates, molds or finishes foam blocks into components for OEM and retail customers.
- Silicone foam
- A heat-resistant, flexible foam used in sealing, gasketing, electronics and transport applications.
- Rebonded foam
- Foam made by shredding and binding foam scrap, often used in carpet underlay and lower-cost cushioning.
- VOC emissions
- Volatile organic compounds released from some foam formulations. Emissions testing matters for indoor applications, automotive interiors and consumer products.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- Shanghai foam industry event
- Interfoam China 2026 Shanghai
- Interfoam China Shanghai 2026
- Shanghai China
- Polyurethane and silicone foams
- Foaming equipment and machinery
- Raw materials and additives for foaming
- Recycling technologies for foam materials
- digital transformation expo
- Shanghai technology expo 2026
Trust footer
Sources
1
References
1
Publishers
0
Date checked
1
Comexposium Seven HJT Exhibition (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
- event_website
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.