With uncertainty now gripping traditional international trade relationships, recent feedback confirms that buyers from China’s growing equine sports and leisure market, are keen to meet with both international and domestic suppliers. 

Mr. Fu Yufei, Operations Director of the Dalian Qi Ji Equestrian Club, summed up the sentiment of many riding club owners and managers across China when he said, “For professionals and members of our equestrian club, to view and compare international and local products is very important. For teenage riders with plans to enter competitions, they attach great importance to the quality of international products for horse health and wellbeing.” Opened in 2021 Mr. Fu went on to say that “Compared to last year, Dalian Qi Ji Equestrian Club is continuously expanding and upgrading its equestrian facilities…In the next 18 months my main plan is to purchase warm blooded horses suitable for helping young riders grow, invest in venue facilities as well as supporting international cultural exchange along with training and competition services for riders and horses…”

Mr. Feng Shoufeng, Operations Director at the newly established Sheng Xiao Equestrian Club near Qingdao City, highlighted the strong growth in grassroot support, “More and more equestrian enthusiasts have become horse owners by buying their own horses, which has solidified a high-quality customer base for the development of the equestrian industry.” Commenting on the demand from riders for the latest equestrian products, he went onto say, “Inflatable armour, horse pants, helmets, leg guards, boots and other equestrian equipment are all in demand for purchase. There are now a wide variety of products on the market, such as women's helmets that combine beauty and practicality. Female members may purchase more than one helmet.” At a club level Mr. Feng echoed the sentiments of other clubs as he confirmed their plans are to increase investment in purchasing “horses and corresponding equestrian teaching equipment, saddles…and other products based on the needs of the club.”

More established riding clubs such as Suzhou Zhen Long Equestrian Club which was founded in 2013, share the same positive outlook with their Operations Manager stating that “Our investment is definitely increasing. We will upgrade the equestrian venue and increase investment in horse maintenance products.” When asked about the importance of being able to view both products from international and domestic suppliers, she said “It's quite important. By viewing and comparing international and local products, one can gain industry knowledge, find products that are more suitable for oneself in the market, and provide more choices for club members.”

Summing up this market feedback, Ms. Sonia Ou Yang, Event Director of China Horse Fair Shanghai 2025, said “We are in constant communication with buyers from the equestrian industry and it is clear that their outlook is overwhelmingly positive with the number of riding clubs and members anticipated to grow strongly over the coming years.” She went onto say, “More specifically it is clear that club operators and their members want to have the opportunity to view and compare products from around the world and from past experience we know that international suppliers exhibiting at China Horse Fair, attract a lot of interest from the local market.” 

Taking place 4-6 July 2025 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, China Horse Fair Shanghai 2025 will be the 16th edition of this trade show dedicated to serving China’s professional equine sports and leisure market. 

Full details of the show and interviews with the above riding clubs can be found on the China Horse Fair Shanghai 2025 website at www.chinahorsefair.com.cn.    

For companies interested in exhibiting please contact Andrew on andrewfurness17@gmail.com.