ITB China 2026 Launches Global Call for Speakers

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ITB China has officially launched its Global Call for Speaker Program, inviting travel industry experts, pioneering business leaders, innovators, and cross-sector thought leaders from around the world to contribute to its conference program. The ITB China Conference will take place in Shanghai from 26–28 May 2026, held in parallel with ITB China, the leading B2B travel trade show dedicated to the Chinese travel market.

In 2026, ITB China will further elevate its role as a center of global travel knowledge and trends—embracing an open, diverse, and forward-looking approach. The event invites visionary voices with insight and impact to help shape the future of the travel industry.

Traditionally, ITB China conferences have been primarily invitation-based. For the first time, ITB China is launching an open speaker application program. Building on its current conference structure, the 2026 edition will feature 60+ sessions and welcome approximately 150 industry speakers for keynotes and panels.

Six Key Themes Open for Global Contributions

ITB China 2026 Conference will center around six core themes that reflect the industry’s most relevant topics and emerging trends, including:

- China Outbound Travel

- China Inbound Travel

- Travel Technology

- MICE

- Themed&Customized Travel

- Hospitality

ITB China aims to bring together visionaries, thought leaders, and storytellers—creating an annual platform for meaningful industry exchange. Front-edge insights, case studies, innovative solutions, and actionable methodologies across any of these areas will be highly valued.

Who We Are Looking For

We welcome speaker applications from:

• Travel industry leaders, government representatives, and destination authorities

• Corporate executives, founders, and innovators in travel and technology

• Multi-disciplinary experts in data, AI, sustainability, cultural tourism, and marketing

• Industry media and journalists

• Researchers and consultants with deep expertise in specialized sectors

ITB China invites all contributors with sharp insights and groundbreaking perspectives to take the ITB China conference stage.

Application Timeline & Process

The Call for Speakers will unfold in two phases:

Phase 1: December 11, 2025 – January 31, 2026

Open global call for speakers.

Applicants only need to submit a preliminary topic direction, aligned with one of the six ITB China main themes.

Phase 2 (Optional): From March 2026

A supplemental recruitment round possible, depending on specific topic needs.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted through the ITB China Call for Speaker Program

Click button to access the application page.

Applicants will be asked to provide:

• Speaker biography, background, and areas of expertise

• Previous speaking experience (if applicable)

• Contact details

Confirmation of speaker will be notified in 4-6 weeks after your application.

About the ITB China Conference

The ITB China Conference is one of the most influential knowledge-sharing and trend-setting platforms in China’s travel industry. Each year, it brings together global leaders, innovators, and decision-makers to deliver holistic market insights, cutting-edge practices, and high-quality exchange opportunities.

Press & Partnership Contact

Press@itb-china.com