The WorldSkills Competition is the world's most prestigious, largest, and most influential vocational skills competition, representing the highest levels of vocational skills worldwide.

Shanghai is set to host the 48th WorldSkills Competition from Sept 22 to 27 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). During the event, talented young competitors from around the world will take the global stage and showcase their skills.

The competition will be held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). The competition, conference, and expo will use 360,000 square meters of venue space, roughly the size of 50 standard soccer fields. Admission to all skill competition viewing areas and all experience activities is free; online visitor registration opens in August.

Beyond the competition itself, the event offers an opportunity to experience skills excellence firsthand.

Key numbers

64 skill competitions

The competition features 64 skill competitions, including seven new additions: Unmanned Aerial Systems, Digital Interactive Media Design, Intelligent Security Technology, Rail Vehicle Technology, Software Testing, Dental Prosthetics, and Retail Sales.

1,400+ competitors

The event is expected to draw more than 6,000 registered participants, including more than 1,400 competitors from over 70 countries and regions. The skill competitions will run for four days, with about six hours of practical work each day; some modules will be announced only on site to make the competition more challenging. Within each skill competition, all competitors will use the same facilities, equipment, tools, and consumable materials. China will send 71 competitors to compete in all 64 skill competitions.

WorldSkills Expo (Sept 23–26)

During the WorldSkills Competition, a wide range of side events and activities will be held, allowing young people to experience a range of skills and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the WorldSkills Competition.

WorldSkills Conference 2026 (Sept 23–25)

The WorldSkills Conference will bring together policymakers, government officials, industry leaders, educators, and young people from around the world to discuss key issues in vocational education and training and advance global skills development.

• Visit: The WorldSkills Expo will have nearly 50,000 sq m of exhibition space. WorldSkills International and its Members, international organizations, event partners, associations from China and abroad, and exhibitors representing China and its provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities will showcase achievements in skills development.
• Experience: Try-a-Skill stands beside each skill competition area will offer hands-on activities such as operating robots, 3D printing, and floral design. Workshops for young people will cover AI, digital media, aerospace, aesthetic crafts, and future career and life skills.
• Interact: Themed routes and wristband checkpoint challenges will give visitors a chance to win souvenirs.

Source: WeChat account of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026