Visitors explore user-friendly virtual ICIF

Powered by virtual reality (VR) panoramic technology, the virtual 19th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF) will simulate its offline exhibition halls, allowing visitors to explore displays from over 6,000 exhibitors, Shenzhen Special Zone Daily reported.

The five-day ICIF will raise its curtain in Shenzhen on June 7, and online visitors will have the opportunity to access the ICIF through its official website, www.cnicic.com, or the WeChat miniprogram “文博会+.”

A screenshot of the virtual 18th China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair at the "文博会+" WeChat miniprogram.

“I can now attend the virtual ICIF using my phone instead of physically going to the venue, and there's no need to pay for a ticket either. Online visits won’t be limited by time and space. I will be fully immersed in the cultural displays from around the country,” said a resident surnamed Zhang, who has previously visited the ICIF on multiple occasions.

Another visitor, surnamed Wang, expressed his fondness for the virtual ICIF. "The online fair provides me with an accessible platform to read information and background details about each exhibition hall, exhibitor and exhibit. I can even interact with the ICIF mascot ‘little droplet’ through VR technology,” Wang said. 

The virtual ICIF will also offer an online trading function. By clicking or tapping on the designated icon to enter the ICIF miniprogram, visitors will be able to view displays with detailed information attached. They can also place orders of intent and reserve conversations with exhibitors.

“Online audiences can access our displays through clear photos and videos uploaded to the virtual ICIF. Enterprises interested in cooperating with us can have unlimited discussions without time constraints," Wang Jinzhong, a staffer responsible for the e-commerce platform at Shenzhen Shuibei Wanshan Co. Ltd., said. “Many potential buyers who were unable to attend the offline fair could use the online platform instead. We achieved significant results through livestreaming last year.”

Moreover, the miniprogram's home page will feature carefully selected exhibitors and halls. Visitors could press a button on their phones to purchase desirable products, enhancing their overall trading experience.

The virtual ICIF will also hold livestreams and artwork auctions, offering a whole-chain service to exhibitors, including display, interaction, communication and trade.