A GLOBAL association for business event organisers has been given the rights to establish a China Council with a representative office based in Shanghai.
Former National Convention Centre executive Jessica Jia will serve as director of operations for the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE)’s China office.
As an approved Foreign Non-Government Organisation in China, the IAEE’s China Council will assist IAEE in establishing working partnerships with key exhibition organisations in China while promoting the global exhibitions industry.
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Jia has a background in international business and has been with IAEE for nine years. She ha established deep cooperation with government officials and local association and navigated complex regulatory frameworks, particularly following the Foreign GO law of 2017.
IAEE said Jia also uses her cross-cultural communication skills to advance international exhibition resources in China.
During her time at the National Convention Centre’s international business department, Jia was involved in planning and executing several high-profile overseas promotional activities and led multiple international market research projects, offering strategic advice to local organisations bidding for international conferences.
More than 1,600 graduates in China have benefited from the IAEE’s Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) Learning Program with the association having built a 20-year relationship with the Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Training Center in Beijing, which is the licensee of the CEM program in China.
In 2022, in conjunction with CCPIT, the Certified International Exhibition Professional (CIEP) was launched with 260 professionals having achieved the designation.
“IAEE is honoured to contribute to the ongoing growth and global recognition of China’s exhibitions and events industry,” said IAEE president and CEO Marsha Flanagan.
“Jessica’s profound knowledge of international business practices and her keen insight into the unique dynamics of the Chinese exhibition market position her as a key resource in fostering meaningful connections and advancing industry excellence.”
Jia said: “I am truly honoured to lead the IAEE China Office and contribute to the ongoing development and global impact of China’s exhibitions and events industry,
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“With the support of the 2025 China Council, we will strengthen our collaborations with key industry partners in China and promote international best practices, education, and networking within the sector.
“As China’s role in the global exhibition industry continues to grow, I look forward to working closely with our members and partners to achieve our shared goals and drive greater success for the industry.”
