Venditalia 2026: EVA & Asia-Pacific Vending Association strengthen dialogue

During Venditalia 2026 in Rimini, EVA President Paolo Ghidotti met with Jack Yuan, President of the Asia-Pacific Vending Industry Association (APVIA), to discuss closer cooperation and the evolving relationship between the European and Asian vending industries.

The meeting marked an important step in strengthening dialogue between both associations at a time when the vending and unattended retail sector is becoming increasingly globalised and interconnected. The Asia-Pacific Vending Industry Association represents around 200 Chinese manufacturers active in vending technologies and unattended retail solutions.

During Venditalia, a delegation of approximately 20 Chinese manufacturers affiliated with the association exhibited their latest technologies and solutions, demonstrating the growing international ambitions of Chinese suppliers within the European market.

Jack Yuan underlined that the objective of the association and its members is to offer valuable propositions for the European vending market while supporting long-term cooperation with European partners. He also stressed the willingness of the association to facilitate partnerships for European companies interested in manufacturing in China or looking for reliable suppliers and industrial partners.

From the EVA side, Paolo Ghidotti highlighted that compliance with European legislation and standards remains an essential condition for long-term success in the European market. Particular emphasis was placed on product compliance, cybersecurity, sustainability requirements, energy labelling obligations and the importance of providing high-quality after-sales service and technical support to European operators and customers.

"The European market offers significant opportunities, but it is also one of the most regulated and demanding markets in the world," stated Paolo Ghidotti. "Compliance with EU legislation, transparency and reliable service are fundamental elements to build trust and sustainable business relationships."

Both associations agreed on the importance of maintaining open communication channels and building constructive cooperation between European and Asian stakeholders. The meeting was seen as an important opportunity to better understand mutual expectations, facilitate responsible business partnerships and encourage fair competition within the global vending industry.

The discussions took place during a highly international edition of Venditalia 2026, which once again confirmed the growing importance of cross-border collaboration and innovation within the unattended retail sector.