SIAL China 2021 opens in Shanghai on May 18. [Photo/WeChat account: SIALChina]

SIAL China – one of Asia's largest food and beverage innovation exhibitions – opened in the Shanghai New International Expo Center on May 18 and runs to May 20, according to local media in the city of Shanghai in East China.

The event has a total exhibition area of 180,000 square meters. More than 4,500 exhibitors from 38 countries and regions – including France, Argentina, Brazil and Canada – have brought some 300,000 products to the event.

The three-day expo includes 10 themed forums and multiple sideline activities. These aim to articulate and interpret the development trends of the global food and beverage industry, bring new thinking to the sector, as well as promote the globalization of the industry in China.

Europe has once again returned to SIAL China to be the region of honor. An exhibition area for products with geographical indications from the continent has been especially set up at the show.

This year SIAL China has set up themed pavilions – for leisure foods, imported foods, meat and frozen foods, convenience foods and grain, oils and seasoning, organic agriculture, high-end drinks and dairy products, as well as for functional health foods.

The goal is to meet the more individual needs of international exhibitors.

Since 2000, SIAL China has aimed to serve as a launchpad for food and beverage companies looking to expand abroad.

It has reportedly inspired food business through sharing valuable insights and trends, connecting exhibitors and buyers, hosting industry recognized events and celebrating innovation.