BEIJING — The upcoming China International Digital Publishing Expo, set to commence on August 27 in Jinan, Shandong Province, will introduce a new exhibition area dedicated to the fusion of traditional Chinese culture with online gaming. This marks the first time the expo will highlight cultural gaming, reflecting the growing synergy between China’s rich cultural heritage and its burgeoning digital entertainment sector.
What Happened
The 16th edition of the China International Digital Publishing Expo will run from August 27 to 29, offering a platform for over 500 exhibitors, including delegations from 20 provincial-level regions across China and international participants from more than 30 countries and regions. The event is organized by the Chinese Academy of Press and Publication, among others, and aims to showcase the latest advancements in digital publishing and gaming.
A significant highlight of this year’s expo is the introduction of an exhibition area that focuses on the integration of traditional Chinese culture with online games. This initiative is in response to the increasing popularity of domestically developed games like “Black Myth: Wukong,” which have successfully blended cultural themes with cutting-edge technology. Such games not only entertain but also serve as vehicles for cultural expression and preservation, bringing ancient Chinese stories and characters to a global audience.
In addition to the cultural gaming section, the expo will feature one main forum, six thematic forums, and over 80 supporting activities. These sessions will cover a range of topics, including digital publishing, human-machine collaboration, interdisciplinary construction, and global academic communication. The Chinese Academy of Press and Publication will also present interim achievements in setting industry standards for AI applications, underscoring the role of artificial intelligence in the future of digital publishing.
Background
First held in 2005, the China International Digital Publishing Expo has become a pivotal event for the digital publishing industry, promoting technological advancements and international collaboration. The expo serves as a barometer for the industry’s growth and innovation, providing insights into emerging trends and technologies.
China’s gaming industry has seen remarkable growth over the years. In 2025, the domestic gaming market generated over 350 billion yuan (approximately 52 billion U.S. dollars) in sales revenue, marking a 7.68 percent increase from the previous year. The number of gaming users in China reached 683 million, reflecting a 1.35 percent rise. This growth is attributed to technological innovations and the increasing appeal of culturally enriched gaming experiences.
Why It Matters
The inclusion of a cultural gaming section at the expo is significant for several reasons. Economically, it highlights the potential of the gaming industry as a driver of growth in China’s digital economy. The sector not only contributes substantial revenue but also creates employment opportunities and stimulates technological advancements.
Socially, the integration of traditional culture with modern gaming offers a unique way to engage younger audiences with their heritage. It provides a platform for cultural education and preservation, ensuring that traditional stories and values are passed down to future generations in an engaging format.
On an international level, the expo and its new cultural gaming section underscore China’s role as a leader in digital innovation. By showcasing how traditional culture can be seamlessly integrated with modern technology, China sets an example for other countries looking to preserve their cultural heritage in the digital age.
Key Takeaways
- The China International Digital Publishing Expo will feature a new cultural gaming section for the first time.
- The expo will run from August 27 to 29 in Jinan, Shandong Province, with over 500 exhibitors.
- China’s gaming industry generated over 350 billion yuan in revenue in 2025, with 683 million users.
- The event will include forums and activities on digital publishing and AI applications.
- The expo highlights China’s leadership in integrating traditional culture with digital technology.
Source Attribution
This article is based on official government statements, press releases, and public communications from relevant authorities.
