Canadian creative industries trade mission to China
The Department of Canadian Heritage, through its Creative Export Strategy and in collaboration with Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service, is leading a creative industries trade mission to China, taking place October 11 to 14, 2026.
The mission will be held in Shanghai and will bring together a business delegation of up to 20 Canadian companies and organizations from the interactive and digital media and performing arts subsectors.
Designed for experienced Canadian exporters, this government-led trade mission offers participants an opportunity to increase their visibility and strengthen their presence in the Chinese market. Through targeted business programming and networking activities, delegates will have the opportunity to connect with key industry stakeholders, potential buyers and strategic partners, and to explore new business and collaboration opportunities.
On this page
Mission details
Delegation: up to 20 experienced Canadian export-ready small and medium companies or not-for-profit organizations.
Location: Shanghai, China. A second city could be added to the itinerary. The confirmed itinerary will be included in the invitation sent to selected candidates.
Dates: Sunday, October 11, to Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Eligible creative sectors:
- interactive and digital media (including gaming and immersive experiences)
- performing arts (priority will be given to non-verbal works, dance and circus, with particular consideration for works that incorporate immersive, interactive, or emerging digital technologies)
Business program elements:
- market intelligence briefing and information sessions on the Chinese market
- tailored business-to-business meetings
- networking activities
- site visits
Mission objectives
- Facilitate market entry and maximize export potential for experienced small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Canada’s creative sector with demonstrated international business experience and high growth potential.
- Increase the visibility and profile of companies already established in China and expand international business development opportunities.
- Strengthen relationships with government counterparts in China to showcase Canada as a partner of choice in the creative industries and promote the expertise and high quality of Canadian creative industries.
Why China
China’s creative industries are dynamic and fast growing, with China becoming a major force in global culture. Driven by rapid digital innovation and expanding consumer demand, the sector offers significant opportunities for international collaboration and for Canadian companies expand their business networks.
As the world’s second-largest economy, China is a high-potential export market for Canada’s creative industries, with creative exports valued at $734.1 million in 2023. Opportunities exist across all creative industry subsectors, notably the interactive digital media, and performing arts subsectors.
The Government of Canada has set an ambitious goal to increase exports to China by 50% by 2030. Canadian Heritage’s creative industries trade mission to this market directly contributes to this objective, supporting Canada’s commitment to diversifying global markets and strengthening creative collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.
Contact
For any questions about this trade mission, please contact us by email at missioncommerciale-trademission@pch.gc.ca.