GIMAV Insights: China Glass 2026 as a Compass for the Industry

As China Glass 2026 approaches, it offers a valuable opportunity to focus on key trends that will shape the coming months. With 875 exhibitors and an expected 50,000+ visitors, the event stands as a strategic platform to identify the main drivers of development:

• process innovation
• automation
• digitalization
• smart plant integration
• solutions focused on efficiency, quality and global competitiveness

Alongside these themes, technologies addressing flexibility, sustainability and customization will also take center stage, reflecting the evolving demands of the market.

GIMAV at China Glass 2026: Presence and Networking

For Italian companies, China Glass is not just a major industry exhibition—it is a key moment for updating knowledge, strengthening positioning and building relationships. Being present means closely monitoring international technological developments and reinforcing competitiveness in a global market.

GIMAV will attend the exhibition with its General Director Lucia Masutti and Umberto De Lorenzo, Head of Internationalization & Institutional Relations. Alongside GIMAV, CASA GIMAV will also be present: a dedicated networking hub designed as a welcoming “home” rather than a traditional booth, first introduced at Vitrum 2025 to support member companies.

A Preparatory Webinar for Members

A new initiative will accompany participation in China Glass: a preparatory webinar scheduled for March 26 at 9:00 AM. This session will provide key insights into the exhibition and offer practical guidance for attendees.

As Lucia Masutti explains, the goal goes beyond logistics:

“Preparing our members before such an important exhibition ensures they arrive fully equipped. But this is part of a broader vision. The Chinese market is complex—challenging, yet full of opportunities. It must be understood. This webinar marks the beginning of a wider information project focused on China, helping companies face present and future challenges with the right tools.”

Artificial Intelligence: Next Webinar on April 15

Following the success of the first AI-focused webinar held in January, GIMAV has decided to accelerate its plans. The next session, originally scheduled for July, will now take place on April 15.

This webinar will focus on OpenClaw, an open-source AI assistant designed to perform operational tasks through existing communication tools such as chats and messaging platforms. Moving beyond simple conversational functions, OpenClaw can interact with workflows, manage tasks and support daily operations.

Fabio Pasinetti, expert in funding and financial facilitation, highlights its impact:

“With OpenClaw, we are facing a technological turning point. In our reality, it is not just a tool—it’s an extension of the workforce. Like having dozens of tireless junior employees managing operations 24/7. AI may replace some tasks, but it gives us back the most valuable resource: time.”

Africa: A Strategic Growth Lever

Africa is emerging as a key region for the Italian glass supply chain. While complex and heterogeneous, it offers growing opportunities across several markets.

Morocco stands out as a particularly dynamic case. In 2024, imports of glass technologies increased significantly:

• €12.3 million for flat glass machinery (+35%)
• €10.2 million for hollow glass (+2%)
• €123 million for accessories and auxiliary technologies (+8%)

Italy ranks as the third overall trading partner, with a 10.7% market share and a 28.3% growth rate. Notably, Italy leads in flat glass machinery with a 49% share and a 57% increase, and also holds a leading position in hollow glass.

Morocco is also strengthening its role as a logistics and production hub for Sub-Saharan Africa, acting as a gateway to West African markets.

As Umberto De Lorenzo notes:

“Africa can no longer be seen as a secondary market. For many companies, it is already a strategic growth direction. The key is not only identifying high-potential countries, but building a credible and continuous presence.”

Pay Transparency: Webinar on April 22

Pay transparency is becoming a central issue for companies, impacting HR, organizational structure and reputation. It goes beyond compliance, influencing compensation policies and internal processes.

To support member companies, GIMAV will host a webinar on April 22 in collaboration with Rödl, offering a practical and up-to-date overview of the directive and its implications.

In a context where transparency and accountability are increasingly critical, early preparation becomes a strategic advantage.

Companies Driving the Industry

Among GIMAV members, OL.MI stands out as a company with over 40 years of experience in the design and production of hinges and hydraulic closing systems for specialized markets. Founded in 1980, the company has evolved into an international player, serving sectors such as refrigeration, pedestrian gates, wind towers and glass, aluminum and wooden doors.

With over 80 patents and a strong focus on innovation, quality and customization, OL.MI has expanded into the glass accessories market, supported by advanced Industry 4.0-compatible production systems.

As the company states:

“Joining GIMAV represents an opportunity for growth, collaboration and further development of our expertise and solutions.”

China Glass 2026, combined with GIMAV’s initiatives, confirms how trade shows, innovation and knowledge-sharing are increasingly interconnected—guiding the industry through a rapidly evolving global landscape.