French expertise at the service of Chinese nautical development
Already announced for 2024, the famous boat show from La Rochelle is to collaborate with a new gathering in the land of the rising sun. The Chinese event will benefit from the 53-year experience of the Grand Pavois de La Rochelle, recognized as one of Europe's leading afloat boat shows. GPO will not be directly involved in the organization of the event, which will be handled by local players, but will contribute its know-how, reputation and strategic support. A partnership based on precise specifications, signed for a first edition, but which could lead to other collaborations.
This initiative is the continuation of a long-term project. Already in 2009-2011, a trade show was co-organized with Shenzhen. And in 2019, contacts were re-launched with Qinhuangdao. A market study had even been launched before being interrupted by the pandemic. In 2023, discussions resumed, leading to a consulting mission led by GPO, and now to this image partnership for a show with an international dimension.
Long-term goal for Chinese boating
This first edition will welcome 40 to 50 boats afloat, a modest but symbolic volume. For Alain Pochon, President of GPO, "it's going to get bigger and bigger". The port of Qinhuangdao, historically focused on coal exports, has set its sights on yachting and the development of sailing. The Aranya site, more oriented towards tourism and high-end leisure activities, offers a favorable setting for this diversification.
The initiative could also benefit the Charente-Maritime marine industry, which could develop a presence with Chinese customers in the years to come. If the 2025 edition is a success, other similar projects could see the light of day in China... or elsewhere.
