Harbin transformed into a diplomatic winter wonderland as mayors from across the globe convened at the 2026 International Ice and Snow Economy Expo this Tuesday. The event, occurring alongside the Global Mayors Dialogue conference, showcased China’s northeastern city as an emerging hub for cold-weather economic development.
Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack emerged as one of the most impressed delegates after experiencing Harbin’s extensive winter tourism infrastructure. The Canadian leader acknowledged his city’s substantial winter programming while emphasizing the learning opportunity presented by Harbin’s approach. “There is a lot of experience we can take back to further grow our new winter tourism and winter economy,” Knack stated, highlighting the potential for international knowledge exchange.
The exposition demonstrated Harbin’s sophisticated integration of traditional winter culture with modern economic development strategies. Delegates participated in hands-on experiences including ice hockey practices, symbolizing the city’s commitment to blending recreational activities with economic opportunity.
This gathering of municipal leaders from diverse climate regions signifies a growing recognition of specialized seasonal economies as drivers of urban development. The Expo serves not merely as a display of winter attractions but as a platform for cross-border collaboration in cold-weather technology, tourism infrastructure, and sustainable winter city planning.
The event underscores China’s strategic positioning within the global winter economy network, with Harbin emerging as a model for other cities seeking to leverage their climatic conditions for economic growth. The knowledge sharing between international delegates suggests a new era of cooperation in developing cold-weather industries worldwide.