2026 Annual Assembly in China

Three Days of Business, Friendships and Unforgettable Experiences

Our 2026 Annual Assembly in Xi’an, China, has come to a close, following three thoroughly enjoyable and productive days of face-to-face networking and relationship building.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our Members who made the journey to China to join us.

Those who took the time to attend certainly made the most of the opportunity, enjoying a fantastic few days together forming genuine friendships that we hope will develop into valuable business opportunities in the months and years ahead.

Bringing People Together, Building Business

As always, our Annual Assembly demonstrated that there really is no substitute for meeting face-to-face. Through our dedicated 1-to-1 meetings, Members were able to discuss business opportunities, exchange ideas, explore new trade lanes and learn more about how they can support one another across the globe.

However, some of the most valuable conversations took place away from the meeting tables, over coffee, during our evening gatherings and throughout the many shared experiences that make our network so special.

An Unforgettable Visit to the Terracotta Army

One of the absolute highlights of our time in Xi’an was our group visit to the world-famous Terracotta Army, an experience that truly exceeded all expectations, and our expectations were already incredibly high! Seeing hundreds of life-sized warriors standing in formation was simply breathtaking, and the sheer scale, history and craftsmanship of this extraordinary archaeological wonder left us all in awe. It was a fantastic opportunity for our Members to step away from the meeting room, explore one of China’s most iconic attractions and share an unforgettable experience together.

There were plenty of photographs and conversations along the way, making it another occasion for creating memories that will last long after our time in China.

A Little Fun Along the Way!

Of course, it wasn’t all business! Another highlight of our time in Xi’an was our wonderful Tang Dynasty dinner and cultural show, giving delegates the opportunity to relax and enjoy some traditional Chinese entertainment together outside the meeting room.

We also arranged a private Chinese calligraphy class, which proved to be another opportunity to have some fun together. For an hour, delegates swapped their meeting notes for ink brushes, tried their hand at this beautiful traditional art form.

These informal moments are such an important part of our gatherings. They help turn business contacts into friends, that is at the very heart of Cargo Connections.

Small Gatherings, Strong Connections

Whilst this year’s Assembly was smaller than usual due to various circumstances, the atmosphere was warm and incredibly positive. The smaller group created a personal environment where everyone had the chance to spend time together.

We are delighted that those who traveled to Xi’an enjoyed such a rewarding experience and left with new friendships, and plenty of promising conversations to follow up on.

After all, successful networking isn’t simply about how many people are in the room. It’s about the quality of the relationships formed and what happens after everyone returns home.

Keeping the Momentum Going

Now that our Members have returned to their respective countries, we encourage everyone to keep those conversations flowing, follow up on the opportunities discussed and continue building on the friendships made in China.

Our next Virtual Meeting Week in April 2027 will provide another excellent opportunity to reconnect, revisit potential collaborations and keep Cargo Connections Members at the forefront of one another’s minds when new business opportunities arise.

And, of course, we are already looking forward to welcoming everyone to our 2027 Annual Assembly in Phuket, Thailand, from 24–26 October, where we hope to see familiar faces alongside many new ones.

Thank You for Making Xi’an Special!

To every Member who joined us in China, thank you for your enthusiasm, positivity, friendship and continued support of Cargo Connections. We hope you returned home with wonderful memories, new friends and exciting business prospects. We look forward to hearing about the collaborations and shipments that develop from the connections made during our three days together.

Because at Cargo Connections, we believe the strongest business relationships begin with genuine friendships.