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When the international wire, cable, tube and pipe industry meets in Düsseldorf from 13 to 17 April 2026 , expect the exhibition halls on the Rhine to be transformed into a hotspot for high-tech, innovation and global networking: wire and Tube 2026 are coming – the leading global trade fairs that the entire industrial world looks forward to.
With 2,700 exhibitors from 65 countries occupying around 120,000 square meters of exhibition space, the trade fair presents itself as a vibrant, global hub for industrial technologies of the future. Notably, more than 600 Chinese exhibitors will be present, demonstrating the strength of “China’s manufacturing power.”
During a promotional event in Shanghai, China on November 19, Mr. Daniel Ryfisch, Project Director of Global Portfolio wire / Tube & Flow Technologies of Messe Düsseldorf GmbH., shared insights in an exclusive interview with Ringier Trade Media. He discussed the highlights and opportunities of the upcoming 2026 exhibition, along with practical advice for Chinese participants.
Mr. Daniel Ryfisch, Project Director of Global Portfolio wire / Tube & Flow Technologies of Messe Düsseldorf GmbH.
wire & Tube 2026: Continuing a Legacy of Excellence with Global Innovation
Reflecting on the 2024 editions, both wire and Tube achieved record-breaking results despite global challenges such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Europe’s energy crisis. Separately, wire 2024 attracted 1,495 exhibitors from 59 countries/regions, while Tube 2024 featured 1,207 exhibitors from 52 countries/regions. Together, they drew 59,702 visitors from 132 nations.
So far, exhibition space and participant numbers for the 2026 shows are on par with the 2024 records. Mr. Ryfisch expressed confidence that the success of 2024 will carry forward, with an expected 60,000-plus professional visitors from over 130 countries and regions. Attendance will be strongly represented with participants across Europe – including Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, France, and Turkey – while China stands out as a key participant from Asia.
“Düsseldorf is the most important trade fair location worldwide for our industries – this is where innovations celebrate their international debut,” emphasized Mr. Ryfisch, noting the unique position held by these twin fairs.
wire and Tube showcase the entire spectrum of modern manufacturing technologies – from machines and systems for wire, cable and tube production to new materials and technologies and innovative end products. The focus will be on stainless steel and special materials, hydrogen technologies, plastic pipes, separation and cutting technologies, e-mobility, fibre optic technology, fastening and joining technology, spring manufacturing, mesh welding machines and the premiere of World of Cables, which will showcase the end product cable in a special area in Hall 13.
Spotlight on Industry Trends and Engaging Formats to Attract Global Visitors
The main focus of the wire & Tube 2026 will include AI & Robotics, Energy Transition & Renewable Energies, with special emphasis on hydrogen and e-mobility.
Visitors will experience how high-performance cables, innovative materials and smart connection systems are enabling the transition to a climate-neutral energy supply – and what role the wire and cable industry plays in the global energy transition. They also will experience on live demonstrations how state-of-the-art robot systems, intelligent machines and smart software solutions are revolutionising the industry. Numerous premieres and technology highlights will offer valuable insights into the future of a dynamic industry.
In addition, several specialized zones will enrich the visitor experience:
wire 2026 – Halls 9 to 17: Wire, cables, wire and cable products and technologies will be presented together with the new World of Cables in exhibition Halls 9 to 13 & 15. Meet China's Expertise will join as a special hub for Chinese innovations in Hall 14. Hall 16 will focus on fastening technology and springs as well as end products such as screws, eyelets and technical springs. The heavy, impressive welded mesh machines in Hall 17 will demonstrate their strength and functionality in regular live demonstrations.
Tube 2026 – Halls 1 to 7.0: Tube manufacturing, processing and trading, as well as machinery and equipment, will be on display in exhibition halls 1 to 7.0. Plastic tubes will be presented in the special area Plastic Tubes & Pipes in Hall 1. Forming technology will be showcased in Hall 5, while pipe processing and machinery will be located in parts of Halls 5, 6 and 7a. Chinese pipe manufacturers and processors will be presenting their latest trends in Hall 7.0 as part of “Meet China's Expertise”.
For the first-time, the “World of Cables” zone will be showcased to bring downstream cable companies — traditionally visitors — into the exhibition as exhibitors, allowing them to display and sell their products. "This is what we do for the first time in the history of wire Dusseldorf, and that is to extend the value chain or to cover the entire value chain to present that special area called World of Cables," Mr. Ryfisch explained.
To foster knowledge exchange, wire & Tube will also introduce a large on-site conference area where attendees can learn about the latest industry news, trends, and innovations. Topics such as automation, digitalization, AI, and sustainability will be discussed.
How Chinese Exhibitors Can Maximize Their Impact
With over 600 Chinese companies set to exhibit — slightly more at Tube than at wire, reflecting China’s strong presence in steel and tube production, Mr. Ryfisch pointed out that many more Chinese firms wished to join but missed the registration window. “The most important thing I can say is: do as early as possible,” he noted with a smile.
This strong interest underscores both the technical readiness and global ambition of Chinese manufacturers.
“China is an important player in the world for tubes and pipes, wires and cables,” said Mr. Ryfisch. "What we see is a very important and huge development of Chinese companies in their transformation to become producers of very high quality products with excellent design, and the only chance for Chinese exhibitors to expand their business in the export markets is to join international trade fairs."
Still, some Chinese companies lack confidence when exhibiting abroad, concerned about the return on investment and unsure about which markets to target.
To improve results, Mr. Ryfisch offered three key recommendations: size, stand design, and language.
- Size: A larger booth helps attract more visitors in a crowded hall. For machinery exhibitors, ample space is essential for live demonstrations.
- Stand Design: An appealing booth design draws attention and engages visitors.
- Language: Staff who can communicate fluently in English or German are crucial for building business connections.
He cited the example of Chinese company — Bordor Laser, which transformed from a little-known exhibitor into a standout player by excelling in these three areas.
For first-time exhibitors hesitant about large investments, the organizer also offers tailored marketing packages to boost visibility affordably.
On the question of where to exhibit, Mr. Ryfisch highlighted Düsseldorf’s strategic location in the heart of Europe—within one hour’s reach of over 11 million people and 500,000 companies. For Chinese businesses targeting the high-end European market, exhibiting in Düsseldorf offers exceptional efficiency.
He also emphasized Messe Düsseldorf’s extensive global network—77 international representatives in 142 countries and 7 international subsidiaries—as a key factor in delivering a high-quality, globally relevant event.