CIPS2026-The 3rd Aquatic Industry Convention

Against the backdrop of challenges and opportunities in the aquatic industry, CIPS has partnered with the OFI to launch the Aquatic Industry Convention. Under the theme "Transforming the Aquarium Industry: Data, Technology and Retail Innovation", the convention builds on the success of the previous two editions to create a world-class platform for global industrial cooperation and whole-chain connectivity.

The aquatic industry is undergoing rapid transformation and upgrading. Digitalization, artificial intelligence and social media are reshaping consumer behavior. Meanwhile, the global trade landscape, industry regulations and sustainability standards continue to evolve.

The 3rd Aquatic Industry Convention will take place on November 12-15, 2026, at Area B, China Import and Export Fair Complex, Guangzhou.

Previous Highlights: The 2nd Aquatic Industry Convention Review

CIPS&OFI Aquarium Retail Excellence Award & CIPS&OFI Commercial Livestock of the Year Award

The 3rd Aquatic Industry Convention features a brand-new awards ceremony. Two prestigious accolades — CIPS&OFI Aquarium Retail Excellence Award and CIPS&OFI Commercial Livestock of the Year Award — will be presented on-site to recognize industry leaders and outstanding new varieties, driving the high-quality development of the sector.

AIC Awards Schedule

Jun. 29

System Open for Entry

Sep. 9

System Close

Sep. 10-24

Judging

Sep. 30

Results Announcing

Nov. 13-15

Award Ceremony (Hall 13.1)

Award Categories

1. Best Retailer Award (1 Winner)

2. Outstanding Excellence Award (3 Winners)

Eligibility

· The business must be a registered aquarium retail operation with a permanent physical premises.

· The business must have been trading for a minimum of 12 months at the time of entry close.

· Staff at the nominated premises must be available to assist with any site visit, if applicable.

· Previous winners of the Best Retailer Award are eligible to re-enter after a two-year exclusion period.

Judging Criteria

Criterion	What Judges Assess
Sustainability	Environmental sourcing practices, waste reduction, energy use, responsible species trading.
Innovation	Novel products, services, display concepts, or approaches that advance the industry.
Expertise & Skill	Depth of staff knowledge, quality of specialist advice, livestock health and husbandry standards.
Communication & Education	How effectively the retailer informs customers and promotes responsible fishkeeping practices.
Community Engagement	Involvement with hobbyist clubs, schools, local events, industry bodies, or conservation initiatives.
Shop Aesthetics	Visual presentation, layout, cleanliness, signage, livestock display quality, and overall atmosphere.
After-Sales Support	Customer follow-up, livestock guarantees, troubleshooting assistance, and satisfaction outcomes.

Award Categories

1. Commercial Livestock of the Year (1 Winner)

2. Outstanding Commercial Species (3 Winners)

Eligibility

· The nominated species must be legally tradeable in accordance with all applicable national and state legislation in the entrant's home country, including CITES regulations.

· The species must have been actively traded in the aquarium market for a minimum of 12 months at the time of nomination close.

· A single nominator may submit nominations for more than one species; each requires a separate completed form.

· Entrants previously awarded Commercial Livestock of the Year are eligible to re-enter after a two-year exclusion period.

Judging Criteria

Criterion	What Judges Assess
Commercial Availability	Consistent supply chain reliability; availability across retail markets. Consideration of import/export viability and domestic breeding supply.
Retail Price Accessibility	Whether the species sits at a price point representing broad market appeal and value for money. Includes margin opportunity for retailers.
Consumer Demand	Evidence of strong and sustained consumer interest, sell-through rates, online search trends, social media presence, and repeat purchase behaviour.
Hardiness & Adaptability	Suitability for a wide range of aquarium environments; tolerance of typical water parameters; survivability during transport and acclimation; low mortality in retail conditions.
Ease of Care	Appropriateness for a broad skill level of aquarists including beginners; feeding requirements, tank size, compatibility, and maintenance demands.
Aesthetic & Display Appeal	Visual attractiveness, colour, movement, and overall impact in a retail display setting; ability to drive impulse purchase and inspire new hobbyists.
Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing	Evidence of responsible sourcing including CITES compliance, captive-bred availability, or sustainably wild-harvested certification.