The 16th Asia Adult Expo (AAE) was held from August 25 to 27, 2026, at Halls 5F and 5G of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This year’s edition debuted under the new theme “TURN ON,” positioning itself as a hybrid platform combining B2B trade with immersive on-site experiences. Official data shows that the expo gathered over 330 manufacturers and international brands.

However, multiple exhibitors told us that the show experienced a notable decline in both exhibitor numbers and foot traffic, largely attributed to the diversion effect of the Shenzhen International Adult Expo (SZI EXPO). Leveraging Shenzhen’s strategic position as a global hub for adult product B2B trade and cross-border e-commerce, the SZI EXPO has rapidly emerged as a major force in Asia’s adult wellness industry. One exhibitor remarked: “Many factories and brands have shifted their focus to Shenzhen. The Hong Kong show felt noticeably quieter this year.”

In fact, the Shenzhen SZI EXPO, originally scheduled for September this year, has been postponed to March 2027. Nevertheless, some exhibitors still prefer to concentrate on the mainland market. “Exhibiting in Hong Kong is expensive, and Shenzhen is much closer to the supply chain—it’s easier to connect with factories there,” said an exhibitor from Guangdong.

Facing the pressure on foot traffic, the organizers visibly stepped up their efforts in exhibition design and attendee experience this year. Unlike last year’s passive approach—where vacant booths were simply left empty—the organizers renovated and decorated the unused spaces, turning them into visually compelling displays and photo-worthy打卡 (check-in) spots tailored for social media sharing. A veteran industry observer who has attended multiple editions noted: “Last year, empty booths stayed empty. This year, they utilized every space and created setups that are clearly designed for social media.They put in much more effort.”

Another highlight of AAE 2026 was the introduction of two themed stages— “COME PLAY” and “COME CLOSER” —which broke away from the traditional trade fair format. COME PLAY focused on immersive performances and industry forums, while COME CLOSER centered on intimacy, sexual health, and wellness talks. The organizers aim to transform AAE into “a media platform with global communication power,” helping brands gain exposure in the social media era.

As the only 100% export-oriented B2B trade platform for the adult industry in the Asia-Pacific region, AAE has been held annually for 16 years, attracting thousands of professional buyers from over 60 countries and regions each year. This year’s exhibits covered adult toys, lingerie, sexual health products, intimate care, BDSM gear, and love dolls. AI-powered smart love dolls emerged as the show’s biggest attraction—high-end models now feature temperature control, AI voice interaction, and micro-expression simulation technologies.

AAE’s challenges reflect a deeper shift in China’s adult product exhibition landscape. With the rapid rise of mainland shows in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and other cities, Hong Kong’s geographic advantages are gradually eroding. One industry observer commented: “Hong Kong’s edge has always been its location and convenience for international travel, but that advantage is diminishing.” However, some exhibitors argue that the quality of international buyers at the Hong Kong show remains superior to that of mainland events. “The buyers who come to Hong Kong are mostly serious international purchasers with real buying power—that’s something mainland shows can’t yet match.”

Following the Hong Kong edition, the Asia Adult Expo (Guangzhou) will be held from September 4 to 6 at the China Import and Export Fair Complex.It is the first time to be held in mainland China，a new try to keep its industry reputation and influence.