Pet Fair Asia 2025 concluded in Shanghai with what the event said was record-breaking attendance and international participation, signaling continued growth momentum in Asia's pet industry. The 27th edition of the trade show expanded to 310,000 square meters across 25 halls, hosting more than 2,600 exhibitors and drawing over 130,000 professional visitors from more than 90 countries.
International trade attendance increased by more than 20% compared to the previous year. The show also attracted 390,000 consumers and pet enthusiasts over its final two days.
The Shanghai New International Expo Centre event showcased significant participation from emerging markets including India, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, with notable growth from South American companies supported by recent visa policy changes and strengthening trade relationships with China.
International buyer program facilitates business connections
The Pet Fair Asia International Buyer Club brought together more than 100 selected buyers from 20 countries for targeted business-matching sessions with over 300 exhibitors. The program included curated site visits across Shanghai to provide deeper market insights for international trade visitors.
Country pavilions from Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan returned to the show, while Poland and the U.S. participated for the first time with dedicated exhibition spaces.
"This first Poland Pavilion at Pet Fair Asia featured leading companies specializing in pet food, nutritional supplements and accessories, reflecting the diversity and maturity of Poland's pet industry as well as its strong commitment to safety, sustainability and premium standards," said Andrzej Juchniewicz, chief representative of Polish Investment and Trade Agency Shanghai Foreign Trade Office. "Polish exhibitors engaged in numerous B2B meetings, establishing valuable connections with distributors, importers and industry professionals from China and across Asia."
Product innovation spans traditional and emerging categories
Exhibition halls featured established categories including pet food, supplies and healthcare products alongside emerging segments such as functional nutrition, fresh pet diets, smart technologies, and travel solutions. The DISCOVERY Zone highlighted over 500 new products launched within the past three months globally.
More than 50 new brands and designers participated in the Start Up program, co-hosted with Little Red Book, providing market entry opportunities and buyer connections for emerging companies.
Asian market growth drives international participation
Despite global economic challenges, international company participation continued to expand at the trade show, indicating strong business interest in Asian market opportunities.
"There were over 25 Korean companies present at Pet Fair Asia this year," said Suh Jung Ho, secretary general of the Association of Korea Pet Product Export and organizer of the South Korean pavilion. "This show is very important for our members. It offers access to China and many Asian countries' distribution channels and the chance to raise brand awareness among the large number of consumers attending the event."
Market outlook supports continued expansion
China's pet market reached an estimated value of 300 billion RMB (approximately US$42 billion) in 2024, with growth primarily driven by lower-tier cities experiencing increased urbanization and pet ownership rates.
With 23% of China's population currently owning pets, market analysts identify significant expansion potential for international pet food and product companies seeking Asian market entry.
"Our mission in the pet industry goes beyond hosting an exhibition," said Edwin Tan, CEO of GLOBUS Events. "We aim to inspire innovation and connect industries invested in a balanced lifestyle between humans and pets. This year's record participation underscores the strength of the pet economy and the global community's commitment to sustainable growth."
Upcoming events in Pet Fair Asia network
Pet Fair Asia will return to Shanghai New International Expo Centre from August 19-23, 2026. The Pet Fair Asia Network will host three regional events before the main show: Pet Fair Southeast Asia in Bangkok (October 29-31, 2025), Pet Fair South China in Shenzhen (December 5-7, 2025), and Pet Fair Beijing (March 19-22, 2026).
