Top 100 international trade shows you need to have on your calendar

Walking into international trade shows without a plan, and hoping to make a few connections, handing out business cards is not going to cut it anymore. International trade shows are bigger, louder, and more competitive than ever. Booth costs are rising, attention spans are shrinking, and without the right strategy, it’s easy to leave with nothing but a stack of flyers and missed opportunities.

But if you know how to play it right, trade shows can be a goldmine for leads, partnerships, and brand exposure. Whether you’re exhibiting or just attending, this guide will help you make smart decisions—how to pick the right events, how to stand out, and how to actually turn those handshakes into business. If you’re serious about getting real results from trade shows this year, keep reading.

Attending international trade shows offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and business growth. These events are not just about showcasing products and services; they are catalysts for innovation, collaboration, and market expansion. In the highly competitive landscape of 2025, where global trade dynamics are constantly shifting, understanding which trade shows to prioritize and what to expect is more crucial than ever.

A recent study by the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry highlighted that 85% of senior executives believe in-person events and trade shows are irreplaceable components of their marketing strategy. This statistic underscores the vital role that trade shows play in building connections, understanding industry trends, and leveraging opportunities for businesses across the spectrum.

Whether you’re a seasoned exhibitor or a first-time attendee, navigating the vast array of international trade shows can be daunting. This guide aims to streamline your planning process by listing the top 100 international trade shows to attend in 2025, segmented by region and industry. From technology and healthcare to energy and manufacturing, each event presents a unique platform for advancing your business objectives.

Top 100 international trade shows

International trade shows

Location

Country

Estimated attendance

Number of exhibitors

The best international trade shows to attend or exhibit in 2025

Selecting the appropriate trade shows to attend or exhibit at is the first step toward success. Here’s how to make choices that align with your business objectives:

Avoid the “shiny object” syndrome

It’s easy to be enticed by large, well-publicized events. However, bigger isn’t always better. Consider the following:

• Relevance over size: Focus on events that cater specifically to your industry or target market. A smaller, niche trade show may attract attendees more aligned with your business goals, leading to higher-quality leads and partnerships.

• Resource allocation: Large events often require substantial investments in booth space, travel, and marketing. Assess whether the potential exposure justifies these costs.

Industry-specific vs. cross-industry shows

Deciding between specialized and broad-spectrum events depends on your objectives:

• Industry-specific shows: These events allow for targeted networking and positioning as an industry leader. For example, CHINAPLAS 2025, scheduled for April 15–18 in Shenzhen, China, focuses on the plastics and rubber industries, attracting professionals and decision-makers in that sector.

• Cross-industry shows: Participating in broader events can open doors to new markets and diverse audiences. However, ensure that your product or service has cross-industry appeal to make the most of such opportunities.

New vs. established shows

Both new and long-standing trade shows offer unique advantages:

• Established shows: These events, like CES 2025 held from January 7–10 in Las Vegas, USA, offer a proven track record and attract a large, diverse audience. They provide extensive networking opportunities but also come with higher competition.

• New shows: Emerging events may offer innovative formats and less crowded spaces, allowing for greater visibility. Research the organizers’ credibility and the event’s promotional strategies to assess potential ROI.

Calculating ROI before you commit

Before committing to an event, evaluate its potential ROI:

• Set clear objectives: Define what you aim to achieve—be it lead generation, brand awareness, or partnership opportunities.

• Analyze attendee profiles: Review past attendee demographics to ensure the event attracts your target audience.

• Budget considerations: Account for all expenses, including booth setup, travel, accommodations, and marketing materials. Compare these costs against the potential benefits to determine feasibility.

Major changes in the international trade shows in 2025

The trade show landscape is continually evolving. Staying abreast of current trends ensures you remain competitive and relevant.

AI-powered business matchmaking

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing how exhibitors and attendees connect:

• Personalized networking: AI analyzes attendee interests and behaviors to suggest optimal matches, facilitating meaningful interactions. This technology enhances the efficiency of networking efforts, ensuring you meet the right contacts.

• Enhanced engagement: AI-driven tools can schedule meetings, send reminders, and provide real-time analytics, allowing for dynamic adjustments to your strategy during the event.

Rising booth prices: what’s behind the costs and how to budget smartly

The cost of exhibiting is on the rise due to several factors:

• Increased demand: Post-pandemic, there’s a surge in companies eager to showcase their offerings, leading to higher booth prices.

• Enhanced services: Organizers are providing advanced technological integrations and improved facilities, contributing to cost increases.

To manage these expenses:

• Early planning: Book your space well in advance to take advantage of early-bird discounts and secure prime locations.

• Modular booth designs: Invest in flexible booth setups that can be adapted for various shows, reducing the need for new constructions each time.

• Shared spaces: Consider co-exhibiting with complementary businesses to split costs while expanding your reach.

Sustainability is now mandatory at many shows

Environmental responsibility has become a priority:

• Organizer requirements: Many events now mandate sustainable practices, such as using eco-friendly materials and minimizing waste. For instance, Heimtextil 2025 in Frankfurt emphasizes sustainability, encouraging exhibitors to adopt green solutions.

• Brand image: Adopting sustainable practices not only complies with regulations but also enhances your brand’s reputation among increasingly eco-conscious consumers.

Evolution of trade show lead capture methods

Traditional lead collection methods are being replaced:

• Digital integration: Utilize QR codes and NFC technology for seamless information exchange, reducing reliance on physical business cards.

• Real-time data analytics: Employ tools that provide instant insights into attendee interactions, enabling immediate follow-ups and personalized engagement strategies.

How to maximize your booth investment and get more leads

Maximizing ROI from trade shows involves strategic planning and execution.

Pre-event digital marketing: driving traffic to your booth

Building anticipation before the event is crucial:

• Social media campaigns: Announce your participation across platforms, share sneak peeks of what attendees can expect, and create event-specific hashtags to increase visibility.

• Email outreach: Send personalized invitations to existing clients and prospects, offering exclusive incentives for visiting your booth.

• Collaborate with organizers: Leverage the event’s marketing channels to feature your brand in newsletters, websites, or app highlights.

Attending as a visitor? Here’s how to get the most value without a booth

Not every business needs a booth. Attending trade shows as a visitor can be just as effective if your goal is networking, scouting competitors, or finding partners. Without the commitment of an exhibit, you can move freely, have meaningful conversations, and still generate valuable leads.

How to get meetings with the right people

Trade shows are filled with decision-makers, but they are also busy. Getting meetings requires a proactive approach.

• Register early and use event networking platforms to schedule appointments in advance
• Attend speaker sessions and industry panels where key decision-makers are likely to be present
• Follow social media event hashtags to track where important conversations are happening
• Engage with exhibitors by asking about their products or solutions rather than leading with a sales pitch

Where to network at trade shows beyond the exhibit floor

Most of the real business at trade shows happens outside the booths. Some of the best networking opportunities take place in:

• Networking lounges and VIP areas designated for meetings
• Industry receptions and after-hours events where executives are more relaxed
• Conference sessions where attendees are open to discussions before and after the presentations
• Coffee shops or nearby restaurants where attendees gather between meetings

How to get past gatekeepers and meet decision-makers

At large trade shows, executives often have assistants or representatives screening conversations. To bypass this:

• Research the company and key decision-makers before the event
• Approach mid-level managers who may connect you with senior decision-makers later
• Be direct and ask for a short conversation instead of a full meeting
• Reference a common industry challenge or trend to spark interest

How to work a trade show like a sales pro even if you hate selling

Trade shows are not just for aggressive salespeople. If selling makes you uncomfortable, focus on:

• Asking insightful questions that help prospects share their pain points
• Building relationships by offering valuable insights instead of a hard pitch
• Exchanging contact information and following up later with a well-thought-out message

The key is to be approachable, listen more than you speak, and make genuine connections rather than just handing out business cards.

What to do after the trade show to actually close deals

Attending a trade show is just the first step. The real success comes from what happens afterward.

Why 80% of trade show leads go nowhere and how to fix that

Studies show that most trade show leads are never followed up on. This is often due to:

• Lack of a clear post-event follow-up plan
• Relying on generic email templates that don’t stand out
• Failure to personalize outreach based on trade show conversations

To fix this, create a structured lead nurturing process before the event. Categorize leads based on their level of interest and set follow-up tasks immediately after the show.

Follow-up tactics that actually work in 2025

Instead of sending a simple “nice to meet you” email, make your follow-ups more engaging:

• Reference specific details from your conversation to make it personal
• Send a short video message instead of just text to stand out
• Provide additional value, such as an industry report or case study related to their interests
• Connect on LinkedIn and continue the conversation beyond email

Speed matters. Following up within 48 hours keeps the conversation fresh and increases your chances of closing deals.

Using trade show data to improve your sales and marketing strategy

Trade show data isn’t just for immediate follow-ups. It can also provide long-term insights into customer preferences and industry trends.

• Analyze which booth visitors engaged the most and what topics interested them
• Track which sessions or networking events led to the most valuable conversations
• Adjust your sales messaging based on the pain points discussed during the event

By integrating trade show data into your CRM, marketing automation tools, and sales strategy, you can continuously improve your event ROI.

Read more about 10 proven strategies for boosting event ROI and engagement

How can momencio help you at international trade shows

The ability to efficiently capture leads, manage contacts, and follow up promptly is crucial for maximizing return on investment. momencio, with its innovative suite of features, stands out as an indispensable tool for businesses aiming to transform their trade show experiences into tangible results. Here’s why incorporating momencio into your trade show strategy can be a game-changer.

Seamless lead capture and instant follow-up

1. Effortless lead capture: momencio’s intuitive interface allows for quick and effortless capture of lead information through various methods, including QR code scanning, business card scanning, and manual entry. This ensures that no potential lead slips through the cracks during the hustle of trade shows.
2. Automated, personalized follow-up: The moment a lead is captured, momencio can automatically send personalized follow-up emails tailored to the conversation or the interest shown at the booth. This immediate engagement keeps your brand top-of-mind for the lead and sets the stage for further communication.

Real-time analytics and lead scoring

1. Insightful lead scoring: momencio goes beyond mere data collection by providing real-time lead scoring. This feature helps you prioritize follow-ups based on the lead’s potential, ensuring that high-value prospects receive immediate attention.
2. Actionable insights: momencio offers real-time analytics on booth traffic, lead engagement levels, and the effectiveness of follow-up communications. These insights allow for agile adjustments to strategies and presentations, even in the midst of the trade show.

Enhanced team collaboration and Efficiency

1. Centralized contact management: With momencio, all leads and contacts are stored in a centralized database accessible by the entire team. This facilitates efficient lead management and ensures that everyone is updated on the status of follow-ups and interactions.
2. Streamlined communication: The platform enables seamless communication within teams, allowing for quick assignment of leads to the most appropriate team member for follow-up. This ensures that leads are engaged with relevant information and expertise, enhancing the chances of conversion.

Personalization and engagement

1. Dynamic content delivery: momencio allows for the customization of content delivered to leads based on their interests and interactions. Whether it’s product information, whitepapers, or case studies, the content can be tailored to ensure relevance and impact.
2. Enhanced engagement tools: Through the use of personalized landing pages and targeted follow-up campaigns, momencio helps maintain and deepen engagement with leads post-trade show, nurturing them through the sales funnel towards conversion.

Conclusion

International trade shows in 2025 offer massive opportunities, but success depends on the right preparation, execution, and follow-up. Whether you are an exhibitor or an attendee, the key is to choose the right events, engage with the right people, and have a solid post-show strategy.

With rising costs and increased competition, businesses that take a strategic, data-driven approach will stand out and see the best return on investment. If you are an event or trade show organizer or business, you should get momencio. The integration of momencio into your international trade shows strategy offers a comprehensive solution to the challenges of lead capture, management, and follow-up. Its ability to provide real-time insights, personalized engagement, and enhanced team collaboration makes it an essential tool for any business looking to leverage the full potential of international trade shows. By streamlining the end-to-end process of lead management, momencio not only maximizes the ROI of trade show participation but also transforms leads into lasting business relationships.

FAQs for international trade shows

1. How do I choose the right international trade shows to attend?
   1. Choosing the right trade shows involves evaluating your business goals, target market, and budget. Consider trade shows that align with your industry focus and have a high attendance rate for your target audience. Research past event success stories, attendee demographics, and exhibitor reviews. Prioritize events that offer the best opportunities for networking, learning, and showcasing your products or services.
2. What should I bring to international trade shows?
   1. Prepare a comprehensive checklist that includes business cards, promotional materials, product samples or demos, and any digital presentations or videos. Don’t forget essential tech like laptops, tablets, chargers, and international power adapters. Also, consider comfortable attire and a small first aid kit, as trade shows can involve long days on your feet.
3. How can I effectively network at international trade shows?
   1. Effective networking starts with being proactive and prepared. Schedule meetings in advance, use the trade show’s app or social platforms to connect with attendees, and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to new people. Be genuine in your interactions, and focus on building relationships rather than just collecting contacts. Follow up promptly after the show with personalized messages.
4. How do I follow up with leads after the trade show?
   1. Quick and personalized follow-up is key. Segment your leads based on interest level or potential and tailor your communication accordingly. Utilize the information you gathered during conversations to make your follow-up relevant and engaging. Employ a CRM tool like momencio to automate and track these interactions efficiently.
5. Can digital marketing enhance my trade show success?
   1. Absolutely. Use digital marketing before, during, and after the trade show to maximize your visibility and engagement. Before the event, announce your participation through social media, email newsletters, and your website. During the trade show, use live tweeting, Instagram stories, and LinkedIn posts to engage with attendees in real-time. Afterward, digital campaigns can help maintain momentum and nurture leads.
6. What are the latest trends in trade show technology I should be aware of?
   1. Emerging trends include augmented reality (AR) for immersive product demonstrations, AI for personalized attendee experiences, and advanced lead capture solutions like momencio for seamless information collection and follow-up. Sustainability in booth design and materials is also a growing trend, reflecting broader environmental concerns.
7. How can I measure the ROI of attending an international trade show?
   1. To measure ROI, you need to track both direct and indirect benefits. Direct benefits include sales and leads generated from the event. Indirect benefits might be harder to quantify but can include brand exposure, networking opportunities, and insights into market trends. Set clear KPIs before the event, such as the number of leads captured, meetings scheduled, and follow-up engagements initiated.
8. What strategies can I use to stand out from competitors at a trade show?
   1. Innovative booth design, interactive product demos, and engaging storytelling can help you stand out. Consider hosting live demonstrations, talks, or Q&A sessions to draw attention. Offering exclusive trade show promotions or launching a new product can also differentiate you from competitors. Utilize social media to create buzz around your booth and offerings.
   2. Cultural awareness at international trade shows is crucial. Understanding and respecting the cultural norms, communication styles, and business etiquette of the show’s host country and international attendees can significantly enhance your interactions and potential for success. When in doubt, err on the side of formality and take the time to learn basic greetings in the languages of key attendee groups.
9. What are the best practices for sustainable participation in international trade shows?
   1. Opt for digital over printed materials, use sustainable materials for your booth design, and minimize waste by planning accurately for promotional item distribution. Consider the environmental impact of your travel and lodging choices and participate in or initiate carbon offset programs related to the event. Engage with organizers and attendees about best practices for sustainability before, during, and after the show.