China’s premier auto event, Auto China, is in turmoil just weeks before its scheduled opening in Shanghai, as a conflict between two government-backed organizing bodies threatens to disrupt the event. The clash has led to confusion among automakers and attendees ahead of the highly anticipated exhibition, which is set to take place from April 23 to May 2, 2025.
Auto China alternates between Beijing and Shanghai each year, with this year’s edition being held in Shanghai. Major automakers, including Volkswagen, BYD, and others, are expected to showcase new models and discuss their company strategies at the event. However, a dispute has erupted between the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and CCPIT Shanghai over who holds the authority to organize the show. Both organizations have issued separate media registration notices, fueling confusion in the industry.
The disagreement surfaced after a WeChat account associated with CCPIT for the auto show declared itself the official communication channel. This move contradicted earlier collaborations between the two councils, which had jointly organized the event in previous years.
Automakers exhibiting at the show have expressed concern, with executives reporting confusion over logistical matters such as booth displays and payment for their stands. This uncertainty comes at a critical time for the global auto industry, which is grappling with challenges such as the U.S. tariffs and escalating trade tensions.
According to reports from Caixin, the conflict escalated into a legal battle, with CCPIT suing CCPIT Shanghai in a Shanghai court. CCPIT claims the right to organize the event under a contract signed in 2002. However, the court ruled that the contract expired in August of the previous year. CCPIT has appealed the ruling, but the court upheld the decision, according to the report.
The two organizations’ clash could impact Auto China 2025, a key event for both domestic and international automakers. However, CCPIT Shanghai has not commented on the situation, and CCPIT has yet to provide information on any potential further appeals. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, which oversees trade and industry in China, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The confusion surrounding the event’s organization highlights ongoing challenges in the global automotive sector, which faces heightened competition and political tensions on the world stage.
