International visitors at the pet expo. [Photo/Tide News]

Shaoxing has taken a major step into the booming pet economy by launching its first international pet supplies expo.

Held from Sept 4 to 6 at the Shaoxing World Exhibition and Convention Center, the 2026 Shaoxing International Pet Products Expo featured around 400 booths across 10,000 square meters, showcasing everything from pet food, clothing, and healthcare products to reptile supplies and ornamental turtles.

The expo brought together manufacturers, buyers, and industry professionals from more than 20 countries and regions, including Russia, Mexico, Brazil, and the United States. Fashion shows, immersive experiences, and livestreaming sessions added an interactive touch, turning the event into more than just a trade platform.

The expo also highlighted Shaoxing's growing pet industry ecosystem, with the city home to more than 1,100 pet-related businesses and the output value of its pet food sector exceeding 1 billion yuan ($149.02 million). Traditional manufacturing sectors such as textiles, home furnishings, and smart equipment are increasingly branching into pet products, including beds, clothing, and smart feeders.

With a new action plan targeting a pet industry market exceeding 4 billion yuan by 2028, Shaoxing is turning its manufacturing strengths into new opportunities in the global pet economy.