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In early June, Guangzhou was once again bathed in a different kind of light that didn’t simply illuminate, but inspired, provoked, and connected. The 30th Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition (GILE), held from 9 to 12 June 2025 at the China Import and Export Fair Complex, marked three decades as Asia’s most influential lighting platform. This year’s edition, themed “Light for Life”, brought together over 211,000 visitors from 151 countries and regions, who came to explore a world where lighting has moved beyond utility into the realms of wellness, sustainability, and design-led experience.
A Legacy of Industry Transformation
From the moment the doors opened, the anniversary atmosphere was palpable. Spread across 250,000 sqm and running alongside Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology (GEBT), the exhibition floor became a living map of the lighting world — from human-centric innovations and AI-driven retail solutions to high-impact architectural installations.
Lucia Wong, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, captured the spirit of the moment: “This year’s GILE introduced the concept of ‘Light-enhanced Living’, demonstrating how lighting technologies can fields such as cultural tourism, smart agriculture, intelligent health ecosystems, and home design… The exhibition provided an exceptional platform to showcase these innovations and foster collaboration among industry players. The enthusiastic response from participants underscores GILE’s vital role in driving the adoption of new ideas and technologies, and we remain committed to supporting the growth and evolution of the lighting industry.”
Groundbreaking Exhibitions and Technological Showcases
As always, the show’s greatest strength lay in its diversity. Ningbo SUNPU LED impressed with full-spectrum, auto-dimming human-centric lighting for premium residential and commercial spaces, while Caimeta unveiled AI-powered retail lighting systems that automatically adjust to product colour palettes. General Lighting Electric Co Ltd used the platform to reinforce its international R&D partnerships, and Jiangmen HUAPU Lighting Co Ltd drew heavy crowds with their smartphone-controlled RGBIC strips, synchronised to music for an immersive effect.
Global Participation and Strategic Networking
The international character of GILE 2025 was unmistakable, with visitors and exhibitors alike praising the event’s ability to bridge markets and foster meaningful connections.
Donato Conte, a senior lighting designer from Brazil’s ALALUX, shared: “My first visit to GILE has been impressive, with a vast range of suppliers and innovations spanning various lighting fields. Brazil’s market relies heavily on imported components, and we need everything from high-quality architectural fixtures to regular incandescent light bulbs. GILE provided an excellent opportunity to explore a variety of solutions, including automation systems and stage lighting, which stood out as particularly noteworthy. The diversity of exhibitors and innovations at the show offered valuable insights into how lighting trends are evolving globally.”
Meanwhile, Kriangkrai Pattanapakdee of executive secretary of Illuminating Engineering Association of Thailand highlighted the irreplaceable value of face-to-face engagement. He added that in an era of digital communication, GILE remains unmatched in facilitating hands-on product experiences and fostering genuine industry dialogue. “My focus is on cutting-edge innovations like IoT-connected systems and AI-powered intelligent lighting, which are shaping the future of our industry. This year, several health-focused lighting solutions addressing wellness needs stood out to me.”
Thought Leadership and Visionary Discussions
Beyond the exhibition halls, GILE 2025 hosted an impressive lineup of over 100 forums and seminars that delved into the most pressing topics shaping the lighting industry. The Smart Lighting + International Smart Building Innovation Ecosystem Salon emerged as a highlight, with Dr Feng Huang of the DALI Alliance presenting groundbreaking insights on how AIoT is revolutionising building management through intelligent lighting systems.
The Luce e Design International Aesthetic Design Forum brought together leading designers to explore the intersection of lighting, architecture, and human emotion. Paulo Guacchione, Senior Design Director at B+H Consulting International Inc, captivated audiences with his vision of lighting as a tool for creating immersive, emotionally resonant spaces that enhance workplace diversity and inclusion.
Another standout session, “Chinese Designers Go Abroad: Blend in or Lead Out,” sparked lively discussions on cultural integration and global market strategies, offering valuable perspectives for companies looking to expand their international footprint.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the curtains closed on this edition, the lighting industry already looks forward to next year. The next editions of Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition and Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology will be held from 9 – 12 June 2026. Both shows are part of Messe Frankfurt’s Light + Building Technology fairs headed by the biennial Light + Building event. The next edition will be held from 8 – 13 March 2026 in Frankfurt, Germany.
Three decades after its inception, GILE stands as more than just a trade exhibition. It has become a vital ecosystem where technology, design, and business converge to illuminate the future of lighting. Its 30th anniversary edition has not only honoured this rich heritage but has also set the stage for the next chapter of innovation and global collaboration in the lighting industry.
For more information on Light + Building shows worldwide, visit: http://www.brand.light-building.com.
For more information on the lighting shows in China, visit: http://www.light.messefrankfurt.com.cn
