Preparations for the 48th WorldSkills Competition are underway as the event approaches.

As Shanghai's primary training base for competitors in the Bakery, Patisserie and Confectionery, and Cooking skills, Shanghai Trade School provides facilities that meet WorldSkills Competition standards, a multidisciplinary coaching team, and innovative training models to support competitors' learning and development.

Gan Wenhua, an expert for China's national team in Patisserie and Confectionery at the 48th WorldSkills Competition, said hosting the 48th WorldSkills Competition in China is an opportunity to promote the development of the baking and broader catering industry, introduce more products to people's tables, and help fulfill their aspirations for a better life.

The competition will be held in Shanghai from Sept 22 to 27. More than 1,400 of the world's top young skilled professionals from over 70 countries and regions are expected to compete across 64 skill categories.

Chen Gang, head of China's expert group for the Cooking skill at the 48th WorldSkills Competition, said competing at home in Shanghai offered advantages, including familiarity with the environment, ingredients, and venue, but victory would still depend on rigorous training and a deep understanding of the dishes and ingredients.

Chen helped the Chinese national team win its first gold medal in the Cooking skill at the 47th WorldSkills Competition in France.

In his view, strong results at this year's competition would demonstrate China's growing international profile, advances in new technologies, and progress in fields where it has traditionally been less competitive.