Discovering the Future of Food Machinery at the 114th China Food & Drinks Fair in Chengdu
Discovering the Future of Food Machinery at the 114th China Food & Drinks Fair in Chengdu
**CHENGDU** – As the 114th China Food and Drinks Fair (CFDF) unfolds at the Western China International Expo City, the event is solidifying its role not just as a trading platform for snacks and beverages, but as a critical launchpad for the future of intelligent food manufacturing. Running from March 26 to 28, the 2026 fair is showcasing how artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are fundamentally reshaping the food industry.
With a record-breaking exhibition area of 325,000 square meters and over 6,600 participating companies, this year’s fair has dedicated significant resources to the Food Machinery and International Machinery section. Spanning Halls 1-3 of the Expo City, the machinery zone covers 16,408 square meters, creating a centralized hub for the entire industrial chain, from processing and packaging to warehousing and logistics.
The Rise of the "Smart Manufacturing" Zone
The most significant highlight of this year’s event is the expanded "Smart Manufacturing" zone, located within Hall 3 (the International Machinery Hall). Occupying approximately 4,000 square meters, this specialized area is responding to the Chinese government’s recent push for an "AI + Manufacturing" action plan, designed to foster new productive forces in the industrial sector.
Exhibitors are moving beyond standalone equipment to present full-process intelligent solutions. The displays focus on four core areas: smart packaging and logistics, intelligent brewing and processing, automated warehousing, and digital quality control.
Automation on Display: Robots and AGVs
Leading domestic manufacturers are demonstrating advanced technologies previously unseen in standard food processing plants. Anhui Heli Co., Ltd. is showcasing its i-series AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) unmanned forklifts, which utilize autonomous navigation to achieve unmanned warehouse operations. Meanwhile, Taiyuan Forred Intelligent Logistics Equipment Co., Ltd. has introduced an ultra-thin four-way shuttle robot measuring just 115mm, designed to maximize space efficiency in high-density storage.
In the processing sphere, robotics are taking over complex tasks. Lian Qun Automation (QKM) is displaying its large-load parallel robots suitable for harsh working conditions, while PY Industry Group Co.,Ltd is demonstrating fully automatic biscuit production line that drastically reduce labor costs.
Enhancing Quality and Efficiency
Beyond logistics, intelligent processing equipment is drawing significant attention for its ability to maintain quality while boosting output. PY Industry Group is exhibiting fully automatic sterilizers and low-temperature vacuum frying equipment, which use precise temperature control to ensure food safety. International giants like GEA are also present, showcasing innovations in food processing and packaging that align with global standards.
The digitization of quality control is another major theme. Companies like Danaher Identification Technology are displaying high-resolution inkjet coders and laser marking solutions, ensuring that every product is traceable and compliant with modern safety regulations.
Local Innovation with Global Impact
The integration of smart machinery is proving highly effective for local enterprises. In the Wenjiang District exhibition area, Songchuan Leipo Intelligent Equipment Co., Ltd. drew crowds with its automated packaging systems, reportedly securing multiple preliminary cooperation intentions on the first day alone. These machines allow food companies to achieve the flexibility needed for small-batch, multi-variety production while maintaining the speed required for mass markets.
As the food industry grapples with rising labor costs and the demand for higher safety standards, the 114th CFDF makes it clear that the future of Chinese food lies in intelligent, data-driven manufacturing.
"We are moving from simple automation to true intelligence," noted a representative from the PY Industry Group, a participant in the smart food machine sector. "The machinery here isn't just faster; it is learning and adapting."
The fair continues through March 28, offering industry professionals a glimpse into a future where robots, AI, and food production are fully integrated.