China: New Energy Vehicle Forum

Shanghai and Chongqing
28-30 July 2026

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), in partnership with the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT), is supporting a UK delegation to the China New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Forum, taking place in Shanghai, followed by a programme of industry meetings in Chongqing.

This programme brings together key stakeholders from across China’s rapidly evolving new energy vehicle ecosystem, providing a platform to explore opportunities for collaboration, investment and market access between the UK and China.

The Shanghai Forum will consist of a half-day conference featuring senior industry speakers and policymakers, with a focus on:

• The development of China’s NEV market and global outlook
• Supply chain innovation, electrification and emerging technologies
• Opportunities for UK–China collaboration and inward investment into the UK automotive sector

Following the Forum, delegates will take part in a tailored programme of company visits and business meetings in Chongqing, one of China’s leading automotive manufacturing hubs. This element of the programme offers participants the opportunity to engage directly with OEMs, suppliers and local stakeholders, strengthening commercial relationships and gaining first-hand insight into the Chinese market.

The SMMT delegation will include UK automotive companies spanning technology, engineering, supply chain and services, with the objective of supporting members to:

• Expand international business networks
• Identify new partnership and export opportunities
• Showcase UK automotive expertise and innovation

This visit forms part of SMMT’s wider international programme, designed to help UK automotive companies access growth markets, build strategic partnerships, and position the UK as a leading destination for automotive investment.

PLEASE NOTE:

• The DBT team in China will endeavour to offer some kind of speaking opportunity at the Shanghai Forum but this is not guaranteed and may not be available to everyone
• Admission to the programme is subject to approval by SMMT and DBT China
• DBT China will endeavour to set up appropriate meetings in Chongqing, but specific meetings are not guaranteed
• There is no fee to attend but registration is required with SMMT
• Delegates will need to pay for their own travel and accommodation (hotels and internal flight will be advised)