Overview
The Gansu International Conference and Exhibition Center (GICEC) is a flagship venue for large-scale events, exhibitions, and international conferences in Northwest China. Strategically located in the Lanzhou New Area—a national-level development zone and transportation hub of Gansu Province—it serves as a key platform for cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and trade promotion across Gansu, Qinghai, Ningxia, and Xinjiang. Since its completion in 2015, GICEC has become a landmark of Lanzhou’s opening-up, blending modern architecture with functional versatility to host events of global and regional significance.
Core Location & Accessibility
GICEC is situated in the core area of Lanzhou New Area, adjacent to major transportation arteries, ensuring seamless connectivity for domestic and international visitors:
- Airport: 15-minute drive from Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW), with a dedicated shuttle bus (Line 602) linking the airport to the venue.
- High-Speed Rail: 20-minute drive from Lanzhou West Railway Station (the city’s main high-speed rail hub), accessible via taxi or metro Line 1 (transfer to bus 606 at Xiguan Station).
- Road: Direct access to the G30 Lianhuo Expressway, with ample parking for 2,000+ vehicles (including 100+ coach spaces for tour groups).
Venue Layout & Facilities
GICEC spans a total area of 280,000 square meters, with a built-up area of 150,000 square meters. It consists of three interconnected functional zones, designed to accommodate exhibitions, conferences, and supporting services:
1. Exhibition Halls
The exhibition area covers 60,000 square meters, divided into 8 indoor halls and 1 outdoor exhibition square (20,000 square meters). Key features:
- Each indoor hall is column-free, with a height of 12–15 meters and a load-bearing capacity of 5 tons per square meter—suitable for heavy machinery displays, trade fairs, and art exhibitions.
- Halls 1–4 are equipped with movable partitions, allowing flexible combination for events of varying scales (from 5,000 to 30,000 square meters).
- Advanced logistics access: Each hall has direct loading docks and freight elevators to facilitate setup and dismantling of exhibits.
2. Conference Center
The conference zone is designed for high-level meetings, forums, and ceremonies, with 20+ meeting rooms of different sizes:
- Grand Auditorium: Seats 2,000 people, equipped with 4K projection, simultaneous interpretation (6 languages), and a professional stage lighting system—ideal for international summits and award ceremonies.
- Medium-Sized Halls (10 rooms): Each seats 200–500 people, with modular seating and video-conferencing capabilities for regional workshops.
- VIP Rooms (5 rooms): Luxuriously furnished for bilateral talks, with private lounges and catering services.
3. Supporting Facilities
To meet the comprehensive needs of event attendees, GICEC offers a full range of supporting services:
- Accommodation: Adjacent to the Gansu International Hotel (a 5-star property with 500+ rooms) and 10+ mid-range hotels within a 3-kilometer radius.
- Dining: 3 on-site restaurants (capacity 3,000+ people) serving Gansu specialties (e.g., Lanzhou beef noodles, roasted lamb) and international cuisine; customizable catering for banquets and coffee breaks.
- Business Services: On-site translation, printing, and logistics coordination; a business center with high-speed internet and meeting support.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps, priority seating, and sign language interpretation services (available by advance request).
Key Events Hosted
GICEC has established itself as a premier event destination in Northwest China, hosting numerous influential exhibitions and conferences:
- China Silk Road International Expo: An annual national-level event promoting trade and cultural exchange between China and Eurasian countries, attracting 100,000+ attendees and 2,000+ exhibitors.
- Lanzhou Investment and Trade Fair: A regional economic forum focusing on green energy, agriculture, and infrastructure cooperation in Northwest China.
- Gansu Cultural Industry Expo: Showcasing local intangible cultural heritage (e.g., Dunhuang murals, Tibetan thangka painting) and attracting art collectors and cultural institutions worldwide.
- International Forum on Desertification Control: A global conference bringing together scientists, policymakers, and NGOs to discuss ecological protection in arid regions.
Practical Information for Visitors & Exhibitors
1. Booking & Inquiries
- Official Website: www.gsicec.com (provides venue availability, event calendars, and online booking forms).
- Contact Hotline: +86-931-7558888 (English-speaking staff available during 9:00 AM–6:00 PM, Monday–Friday).
- Booking Lead Time: 3–6 months in advance for large exhibitions; 1–2 months for small-to-medium conferences.
2. Visitor Tips
- Event Calendar: Check the official website or follow GICEC’s WeChat account ("甘肃国际会展中心") for upcoming events and ticket information (many exhibitions are free for the public).
- Transportation Card: Purchase a Lanzhou Public Transport Card (available at metro stations) for discounted fares on buses and metro to the venue.
- Nearby Attractions: Extend your visit with a trip to Lanzhou Waterwheel Park (40-minute drive) or Baita Mountain Park (35-minute drive) to experience local culture.
3. Exhibitor Services
- Booth Construction: On-site approved contractors offer standard and custom booth designs; setup hours are 8:00 AM–8:00 PM (3 days before the event).
- Utilities: Power, water, and internet connections are available in all exhibition halls (fees apply based on usage).
- Promotion: GICEC provides event marketing support, including social media promotion, press releases, and visitor matching services.
Significance & Impact
As a hub for international exchange, GICEC plays a pivotal role in boosting Gansu’s integration into the Belt and Road Initiative. By hosting cross-border events, it facilitates trade between Northwest China and Central Asia, showcases Gansu’s cultural and ecological resources, and strengthens regional cooperation in sectors like energy, tourism, and agriculture. For visitors, it offers a window into the dynamic development of Northwest China, while for businesses, it provides unparalleled opportunities to connect with global partners.
Whether attending a trade fair, international forum, or cultural exhibition, GICEC’s world-class facilities and strategic location make it the top choice for events in Gansu and beyond.