CAPAS 2025 Breaks Records, Accelerates Growth in Southwest China’s Automotive Industry

The 11th edition of the Chengdu International Trade Fair for Automotive Parts and Aftermarket Services (CAPAS Chengdu) concluded successfully on 24 May 2025, marking its biggest and most impactful show to date. Held at the Chengdu Century City New International Exhibition and Convention Center, this year’s event achieved record-breaking participation, underscoring its role as a vital driver of innovation, sustainability, and transformation within Southwest China’s automotive ecosystem.

With 773 exhibitors across 52,000 sqm of exhibition space and 21,896 trade visitors from 26 countries and regions, CAPAS 2025 showcased cutting-edge developments in new energy technologies, smart connectivity, aftermarket services, and supply chain integration. A total of 23 fringe events added further value, highlighting themes such as talent development, cross-sector collaboration, and automotive culture.

A Strategic Platform for Industrial Upgrading

Mr James Yu, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd, remarked:
“CAPAS continues to be a high-impact platform for promoting business cooperation, technological exchange, and regional integration. This year’s event reflected the fast-evolving nature of Southwest China’s automotive landscape, especially with the rise of used cars, customisation, and maintenance services. The show successfully connected global players to local demand, helping unlock the market’s full potential.”

Meeting Rising Demand in the Southwest Aftermarket

Reflecting rapid electrification and a shift toward green mobility, major players unveiled innovations across the EV and aftermarket spectrum. Shanghai GKN HUAYU Driveline Systems Co Ltd debuted its latest drivetrain systems, while Guangdong Chelimei Technology Co Ltd introduced customised film solutions designed for new energy vehicles.

Ms Emma Lu, Marketing Supervisor of Shanghai GKN HUAYU, commented:
“The engagement with regional distributors exceeded our expectations. CAPAS helped us gain deeper insight into the market’s appetite for high-quality components.”

Mr Hongbin Liang from MOTJ Car Film echoed similar sentiments:
“Southwest China is a prime market for vehicle personalisation. CAPAS allowed us to connect directly with end-users, providing valuable product feedback.”

Meanwhile, Dongguan Fubang Automobile Service Co Ltd capitalised on the platform to secure six new franchise partnerships. Founder Mr Wenbo Liu shared:
“This is our first time at CAPAS, and the results have surpassed what we anticipated. We’re now better equipped to meet the growing service demands of new energy vehicle owners.”

Lifestyle Trends Drive New Market Segments

The rise in recreational vehicle (RV) camping also made its mark. Mr Zhichao Li from Nanchong Yonghe RV Co Ltd observed strong interest in their offerings:
“Many distributors are now planning to visit our factory. The popularity of RV camping presents a fresh avenue for lifestyle-driven vehicle demand in the region.”

Bridging Global Buyers and Local Suppliers

CAPAS 2025 continued to draw global attention, with visiting buyer groups from Türkiye, Poland, Thailand, Indonesia, and the UAE. Business matchmaking proved fruitful, with Mr Muhammad Sohail of Auto Part Zone (Türkiye) praising the efficiency of the connections made.

From Poland, Mr Mariusz Prusaczyk of Inter Cars SA highlighted the value of the CAPAS Discovery Tour:
“The mix of supplier visits and cultural immersion deepened our understanding of the Southwest China market.”

Domestically, Ms Gina Liu of Chengdu Titans Homzen Technology Co Ltd expressed appreciation for the show’s focus on component innovation and EV customisation:
“We found quality suppliers for assisted driving and charging solutions and are exploring new avenues in RV and commercial vehicle modifications.”

Fringe Events Foster Industry Integration and Talent Development

The show’s 23 concurrent events brought new perspectives to regional growth. The New Energy Vehicle Industry-Education Integration Zone facilitated practical training and policy dialogue. Mr Zhele Li, Secretary-General of the Auto Talents Committee of the China Talents Society, commented:
“CAPAS has evolved into a key bridge linking vocational institutions, industry leaders, and policy makers—crucial for navigating the shift to electric and smart mobility.”

In addition, the Automotive Dealer Service Innovation Conference tackled pain points for 4S dealerships, while matchmaking sessions ensured direct supply-demand connections. Ms Wenji Liu of the China Automobile Dealers Association said:
“These sessions were strategic, solution-oriented, and helped strengthen networks within the dealer community.”

Automotive culture also took centre stage at the Car Customising Festival. The immersive zone blended car displays, racing simulators, and e-sports. Visitor Ms Linli Fu shared:
“The festival created a fun, inclusive space for enthusiasts like me. It was more than just a showcase it felt like a community.”

Extensive Media Coverage and Future Outlook

With livestreams, media spotlights, and digital amplification, CAPAS 2025 attracted both local and international media attention. Exhibitors benefited from broader visibility, enhancing brand recognition and market reach across China’s automotive clusters.

Looking ahead, the 12th edition of CAPAS Chengdu will return from 21 to 23 May 2026, continuing its mission to serve as a dynamic platform for industrial transformation and regional collaboration.

For more information, visit www.capas-chengdu.com or contact auto@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com.