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HOUSING MARKETS IN CALIFORNIA, NEW JERSEY AND ILLINOIS STILL HAVE ELEVATED RISK OF DOWNTURNS IN SECOND QUARTER OF 2024

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New York City and Chicago Areas Remain Vulnerable to Housing Issues Despite Strong Overall Markets; South Region Faces Less Exposure While West Has More

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — ATTOM, a leading curator of land, property, and real estate data and analytics, today released a Special Housing Risk Report spotlighting county-level housing markets around the United States that are more or less vulnerable to declines, based on home affordability, underwater mortgages and other measures in the second quarter of 2024. The report shows that California, New Jersey and Illinois once again had the highest concentrations of the most-at-risk markets in the country, with some of the biggest clusters in the New York City and Chicago areas, as well as inland California. Less-vulnerable markets remained spread mainly throughout the South, along with parts of the Midwest.

The second-quarter patterns – derived from gaps in home affordability, underwater mortgages, foreclosures and unemployment – revealed that nearly half of the counties around the U.S. considered most exposed to potential drop-offs were in California, New Jersey and Illinois. As with earlier periods over the past few years, those concentrations dominated the list of areas more at risk of downturns.

County-level housing markets on that list included seven in around New York City, five in the Chicago metro area and 12 in areas of California mostly away from the Pacific coast. The rest were scattered largely around the South as well as other parts of the Midwest and Northeast.

At the other end of the risk spectrum, close to half the markets considered least likely to decline fell in Virginia, Wisconsin and Tennessee. They included four in the Washington, DC, area and three each in the Richmond, VA, and Nashville, TN, metro areas.

“The housing market boom continues to gain momentum, thanks to another Springtime boost. However, some markets show signs of potential instability, which suggests a mixed level of risk, particularly in certain regions that repeatedly show signs of concern,” said Rob Barber, CEO of ATTOM. “While these observations don’t indicate immediate red flags or warning signs of an impending downturn, they do highlight areas of relative risk. With the housing market still facing challenges, it’s crucial to closely monitor regions where key indicators suggest a higher likelihood of issues.”

Counties were considered more or less at risk based on the percentage of homes facing possible foreclosure, the portion with mortgage balances that exceeded estimated property values, the percentage of average local wages required to pay for major home ownership expenses on median-priced single-family homes and local unemployment rates. The conclusions were drawn from an analysis of the most recent home affordability, equity and foreclosure reports prepared by ATTOM. Unemployment rates came from federal government data. Rankings were based on a combination of those four categories in 589 counties around the United States with sufficient data to analyze in the second quarter of 2024. Counties were ranked in each category, from lowest to highest, with the overall conclusion based on a combination of the four ranks. See below for the full methodology.

Significant gaps in risk continued in different parts of the U.S. during the second quarter of 2024 as key housing market metrics have gotten either better or worse this year. Those measures included home prices, equity and affordability.

Vulnerable housing markets still clustered around Chicago, New York City and inland California
The metropolitan areas around New York, NY, and Chicago, IL, as well as broad stretches of California, had 24 of the 51 U.S. counties considered most vulnerable in the second quarter of 2024 to housing market troubles. The counties were among 589 around the nation with enough data to analyze. (The report includes 51 counties at either end of the risk spectrum, instead of the usual 50 that have been included in prior reports, because of ties in rankings).

The most at-risk counties included three in New York City (Kings County, which covers Brooklyn, Richmond County, which covers Staten Island, and Bronx County) and four in the New York City suburbs (Essex, Passaic, Sussex and Union counties, all in New Jersey). It also included Cook, Kendall, McHenry and Will counties in Illinois and Lake County in Indiana.

Another 12 were in California: Butte County (Chico), Humboldt County (Eureka), Solano County (outside Sacramento) and Shasta County (Redding) in the northern part of the state, plus Kern County (Bakersfield), Kings County (outside Fresno), Madera County (outside Fresno), Merced County, San Joaquin County (Stockton) and Stanislaus County (Modesto) in central California. Two others, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, were in southern California.

At-risk counties have worse levels of affordability, underwater mortgages, foreclosures and unemployment
Major home-ownership costs (mortgage payments, property taxes and insurance) on median-priced single-family homes were considered seriously unaffordable in 33 of the 51 counties deemed most vulnerable to market drop-offs in the second quarter of 2024. That means those expenses consumed at least 43 percent of average local wages. Nationwide, major expenses on typical homes sold in the second quarter required 35.1 percent of average local wages.

The highest percentages in the most at-risk markets were in Kings County (Brooklyn), NY (111.8 percent of average local wages needed for major ownership costs); Riverside County, CA (74.4 percent); Washington County (St. George), UT (70.4 percent); Richmond County (Stated Island), NY (66.8 percent) and Passaic County, NY (outside New York City) (65.3 percent).

At least 5 percent of residential mortgages were underwater in the second quarter of 2024 in 34 of the 51 most-at-risk counties. Nationwide, 5.1 percent of mortgages fell into that category, with homeowners owing more on their mortgages than the estimated value of their properties. Those with the highest underwater rates among the 51 most at-risk counties were Tangipahoa Parish, LA (east of Baton Rouge) (26.1 percent underwater); Peoria County, IL (16.3 percent); Lake County (Gary), IN (13.2 percent); Orleans Parish (New Orleans), LA (13.1 percent) and Montgomery County (Dayton), OH (10.9 percent).

More than one of every 1,000 residential properties faced a foreclosure action in the second quarter of 2024 in 39 of the 51 most vulnerable counties. Nationwide, one in 1,575 homes were in that position.

The highest foreclosure-case rates in those counties were in Charlotte County (Punta Gorda), FL (one in 464 residential properties facing possible foreclosure); Cumberland County (Vineland), NJ (one in 484); Sussex County, NJ (outside New York City) (one in 486); Dorchester County, SC (outside Charleston) (one in 513) and Gregg County (Longview), TX (one in 579).

The June 2024 unemployment rate was at least 5 percent in 35 of the 51 most at-risk counties, while the nationwide figure stood at 4.1 percent. The highest rates in those counties were all in central California: Merced County (9.4 percent); Kern County (Bakersfield) (9 percent); Kings County (outside Fresno) (8.5 percent); Madera County (outside Fresno) (7.5 percent) and Stanislaus County (Modesto) (7.1 percent).

Counties least at risk spread mainly throughout South and Midwest
Twenty-three of the 51 counties considered least vulnerable to housing market problems from among the 589 reviewed in the second-quarter report were in the South while 15 were in Midwest. The Northeast had 11 while the West had just two.

Virginia had eight of the least-at-risk counties in the second quarter: Alexandria City, Arlington and Fairfax and Loudoun, all in the Washington, DC, metro area; Chesterfield, Henrico and Richmond City in the Richmond, VA, area, and Albemarle County (Charlottesville).

Wisconsin also had eight. They were Brown County (Green Bay), Outagamie County (outside Green Bay), Dane County (Madison), Rock County (outside Madison), Eau Claire County, La Crosse County, Washington County (outside Milwaukee) and Winnebago County (Oshkosh). Five more were in Tennessee. They included Davidson, Rutherford and Williamson counties in the Nashville metro area, and Blount and Knox County in the Knoxville area.

Better market measures benefit less-vulnerable counties
Major ownership costs on median-priced single-family homes were seriously unaffordable in 18 of the 51 counties that were considered least vulnerable to market problems in the second quarter of 2024 (compared to 33 of the most at-risk counties).

The lowest levels were in Morgan County, AL (outside Huntsville) (23.9 percent of average local wages needed for major ownership costs); Dauphin County (Harrisburg), PA (25.2 percent); Richmond City/County, VA (25.9 percent); Shawnee County (Topeka), KS (27.3 percent) and Madison County (Huntsville), AL (27.8 percent).

More than 5 percent of residential mortgages were underwater in the second quarter of 2024 (with owners owing more than their properties were worth) in only six of the 51 least-at-risk counties. Those with the lowest rates were Chittenden County (Burlington), VT (1 percent underwater); Hillsborough County (Manchester), NH (1.7 percent); Rockingham County (Portsmouth), NH (1.7 percent); Williamson County, TN (outside Nashville) (1.8 percent) and Loudoun County, VA (outside Washington, DC) (1.8 percent).

More than one in 1,000 residential properties faced a foreclosure action during the second quarter of 2024 in none of the least-at-risk counties. Those with the lowest rates were Chittenden County (Burlington), VT (one in 73,209 residential properties faced possible foreclosure); Johnson County (Overland Park), KS (one in 25,211); Dane County (Madison), WI (one in 25,042); Medina County, OH (outside Akron) (one in 18,785) and Alexandria City/County, VA (one in 13,376).

The June 2024 unemployment rate was less than 4 percent in all of the least-at-risk counties. The lowest rates among those counties were in Chittenden County (Burlington), VT (1.9 percent); Arlington County, VA (2.2 percent); Merrimack County (Concord), NH (2.2 percent); Cass County (Fargo), ND (2.3 percent) and Cumberland County (Portland) ME (2.3 percent).

Report methodology
The ATTOM Special Market Impact Report is based on ATTOM’s second-quarter 2024 residential foreclosure, home affordability and underwater property reports, plus June 2024 unemployment figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (Press releases for affordability, foreclosure and underwater-property reports show the methodology for each.) Counties with sufficient data to analyze were ranked based on the second-quarter percentage of residential properties with a foreclosure filing, the percentage of average local wages needed to afford the major expenses of owning a median-priced home and the percentage of properties with outstanding mortgage balances that exceeded their estimated market values, along with June 2024 county-level unemployment rates. Ranks then were added up to develop a composite ranking across all four categories. Equal weight was given to each category. Counties with the lowest composite rank were considered most vulnerable to housing market problems. Those with the highest composite rank were considered least vulnerable.

About ATTOM
ATTOM provides premium property data and analytics that power a myriad of solutions that improve transparency, innovation, digitization and efficiency in a data-driven economy. ATTOM multi-sources property tax, deed, mortgage, foreclosure, environmental risk, natural hazard, and neighborhood data for more than 155 million U.S. residential and commercial properties covering 99 percent of the nation’s population. A rigorous data management process involving more than 20 steps validates, standardizes, and enhances the real estate data collected by ATTOM, assigning each property record with a persistent, unique ID — the ATTOM ID. The 30TB ATTOM Data Warehouse fuels innovation in many industries including mortgage, real estate, insurance, marketing, government and more through flexible data delivery solutions that include ATTOM Cloud, bulk file licenses, property data APIs, real estate market trends, property navigator and more. Also, introducing our newest innovative solution, making property data more readily accessible and optimized for AI applications– AI-Ready Solutions. 

Media Contact:
Megan Hunt
megan.hunt@attomdata.com

Data and Report Licensing:
datareports@attomdata.com

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SOURCE ATTOM

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ASTRI Showcases Pioneering Technologies at InnoCarnival 2026

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October 24, 2026

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Driving Technology Adoption, Shaping a Vision for the Future

HONG KONG, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) is proud to present a range of cutting-edge technologies and practical solutions at this year’s InnoCarnival, spanning communications technology, smart cities, IoT sensing, and renewable energy and energy storage. ASTRI’s innovations address urban development needs and everyday applications, driving diversity in the innovation and technology (I&T) sector.

Organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the Hong Kong SAR Government, the InnoCarnival 2026 runs from today through 1 November at Hong Kong Science Park (HKSP) with the theme of “Lead with I&T, Dream to Fly High “, offering the public an opportunity to experience the transformative power and I&T vibrancy.

Ir Dr Ted Suen, Chief Executive Officer of ASTRI, stated: “Innovation is not just about breakthroughs in the lab – it’s about putting technology into practice, empowering industries, and benefiting society as a whole. At ASTRI, we align closely with the government’s priorities in advancing AI development and accelerating new industrialisation. Through our participation in the InnoCarnival, we showcase various state-of-the-art technologies, some of which have been co-developed with industry partners and are already in commercial rollout. These innovations demonstrate the tangible benefits of technology in daily life and inspire the public to explore their curiosity about science and innovation.”

He highlighted the InnoCarnival as a key platform to bridge the I&T community with the public. “This annual landmark event motivates young people to explore their potential and encourages them to pursue careers in Hong Kong’s growing I&T sector,” he added.

ASTRI’s booth (A08), located at the HKSP’s Atrium Link, features interactive games powered by its groundbreaking technologies “5G-SAT Link” and “Omniguard-All-Weather Multispectral Surveillance System” technologies. Visitors can also explore other advanced solutions on display, including the dual-purpose “SafeStop Dual-purpose Impact Dissipation Bollard”, the “Hybrid-Powered Asset Tracker”, and the award-winning “NIR Secure Anti-Counterfeit Solutions”, which received gold award at the prestigious Edison Awards.

1. 5G-SAT Link
ASTRI’s “5G-SAT Link” technology delivers seamless, comprehensive communications coverage—even in remote areas, emergency scenarios where infrastructure is compromised, or at sea and in the air.

2. Omniguard: All-Weather Multispectral Surveillance System
The “Omniguard” is equipped with exceptional fog penetration capabilities, superior contrast, and crystal-clear signal quality. Leveraging its advanced shortwave and longwave infrared sensors, the system can even detect non-metallic vessels that are difficult for radar systems to identify in harsh coastal environments.

3. SafeStop Dual-purpose Impact Dissipation Bollard
Developed by ASTRI, the “SafeStop Bollard” features a unique material design inspired by the retractable claw structure of cats. Its 3D tension-expansion composition allows it to effectively dissipate kinetic energy from moving vehicles, providing dual protection by blocking vehicles while minimising potential harm to occupants. Certified to meet international crash-test standards, the bollard’s shallow foundation design makes it ideal for fast and efficient installation in high-traffic urban locations.

4. Hybrid-Powered Asset Tracker
The “Hybrid-Powered Asset Tracker” enables efficient, real-time management of airport equipment such as baggage carts over extended periods. Supported by the Airport Authority Hong Kong, the tracker is compatible with airport wireless networks and utilises automatic Bluetooth-GPS switching for seamless indoor and outdoor location updates. With a long-lasting battery combined with an efficient, low-light solar panel, the tracker extends its lifespan from under two years to five years.

5. NIR Secure Anti-Counterfeit Solutions
The “NIR Secure Anti-Counterfeit Solutions” offer an innovative authentication system by embedding covert near-infrared (NIR) absorbing materials into product packaging. Users can verify product authenticity instantly using a smartphone, paired with an NIR reader and mobile app. Highly scalable and robust, this solution combats counterfeit goods while preserving the original product design and production workflow. Co-developed with Zhuhai Print-Rite New Materials Corporation Ltd., this technology sets a new benchmark in secure authentication.

Photos Download: https://bit.ly/4iguifh

About ASTRI

Founded in 2000 by the HKSAR Government, Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) is the city’s largest government-funded R&D centre. Committed to transforming high-impact research into practical innovations, ASTRI drives market-driven, interdisciplinary advancements across sectors, including Smart City, FinTech, Digital Health and Life Sciences, New Industrialisation and Intelligent Manufacturing, Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC) and Advanced Electronics, New Energy and Energy Storage, and Green and ESG Technologies. Following its merger with the Nano and Advanced Materials Institute, ASTRI has further strengthened its capabilities, with over 1,500 patents and 2,200 successful cases of technology transfer. Recognised with numerous international awards, ASTRI continues to nurture top I&T talent and foster collaborations among the I&T ecosystem, contributing to Hong Kong’s high-value economic development. For more information, please visit: https://www.astri.org 

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SOURCE Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI)

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Best Magnetic Stand Cases for iPhone 18 Pro & iPhone 18 Pro Max in 2026: TORRAS Recognized as a Top Choice by Expert Consumers

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Expert Consumers has recognized the TORRAS Magnetic Stand Case as a top choice for iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max users seeking built-in stand functionality, magnetic accessory support, and everyday convenience. The recognition highlights TORRAS’s Q-series and O-series lineup, including Q3 Spin, O3 Fitness, Q3 Silicone, Q3 Wind, Q3 VegSkin, and Q3 Air Essential.

Best MagSafe Cases:

TORRAS – offers magnetic stand cases with rotating and adjustable viewing mechanisms, support for compatible MagSafe accessories, and different materials and grip designs. Its Ostand lineup provides options for desk work, entertainment, fitness, travel, and everyday smartphone use.

As smartphones become increasingly central to video calls, navigation, streaming, and mobile work, the role of a phone case has expanded beyond protection. For consumers researching the best MagSafe case, the ability to position a phone hands-free, connect compatible accessories, and maintain comfortable everyday handling can make a meaningful difference.

Expert Consumers examined the features that matter when choosing a magnetic stand case, including stand practicality, viewing flexibility, magnetic functionality, charging compatibility, material feel, and documented durability features. The review highlights how TORRAS addresses these priorities through multiple stand configurations and case designs.

TORRAS Ostand Series Combines Stand and Magnetic Functionality

The TORRAS Ostand lineup integrates stand mechanisms into magnetic phone cases, reducing the need for separate hands-free viewing accessories. Rather than offering one universal configuration, the Q-series and O-series address different preferences for stand movement, grip, materials, and everyday use.

The TORRAS Q3 Spin features a 360-degree rotating ring stand that folds flat when not in use. The design supports flexible positioning for portrait video calls, landscape streaming, and desk use. For the iPhone 18 Pro version, TORRAS specifies an 18N magnetic holding force for compatible accessories and states that the stand mechanism has been tested through 30,000 rotations.

The TORRAS O3 Fitness offers additional adjustment for users who frequently move between handheld and hands-free activities. Available for iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, its aluminum stand provides 360-degree rotation, up to 180-degree tilt, and grip functionality. TORRAS lists 38 N56 magnets arranged in a Halbach array, delivering up to 18N of magnetic force. The design is particularly relevant for workouts, filming, travel, and video calls.

For users prioritizing a softer case feel, the TORRAS Q3 Silicone combines a liquid silicone exterior with a 360-degree rotating stand. Its documented iPhone 18 Pro Max version uses N52 magnets in a Halbach array for compatible magnetic charging and accessories. A microfiber interior and reinforced construction complement the soft-touch finish, supporting comfortable everyday handling.

The TORRAS Q3 Wind takes a related approach to comfort while offering a different stand configuration. Its iPhone 18 Pro Max version features 360-degree rotation and an opening range of up to 180 degrees. The stand can also function as a finger grip. TORRAS specifies N56 magnets in a Halbach array with an 18N magnetic holding force, combining flexible viewing with magnetic accessory support.

The TORRAS Q3 VegSkin emphasizes material finish alongside everyday functionality. Available for iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, it features an organic silicone-leather exterior and a 360-degree rotating aluminum stand. Its N56 Halbach magnetic system provides a stated 18N holding force. The combination makes it suitable for meetings, commuting, presentations, and users who prefer a more refined case appearance.

The TORRAS Q3 Air Essential combines rotating stand functionality with textured handling surfaces and Air Pro cushioning. Available in dedicated iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max versions, it features a 360-degree rotating stand for hands-free viewing and a stated magnetic holding force of up to 18N. Its textured exterior is designed to support grip during everyday use, while cushioning provides an additional protective element.

Together, these models demonstrate how integrated stand cases can accommodate different routines without requiring users to rely on separate stands or grips.

Practical Features for Everyday Phone Use

A magnetic stand case becomes more useful when its design matches the way a phone is used. The TORRAS lineup includes configurations suited to several everyday situations:

Desk work and streaming: Q3 Spin provides a rotating ring stand for changing between portrait and landscape viewing.Fitness and filming: O3 Fitness combines 360-degree rotation, up to 180-degree tilt, and grip functionality for flexible positioning.Comfortable everyday handling: Q3 Silicone and Q3 Wind combine soft-touch finishes with adjustable stand mechanisms.Office use and commuting: Q3 VegSkin offers rotating stand functionality with a leather-inspired exterior.Travel and hands-free viewing: Q3 Air Essential combines a rotating stand with textured grip and cushioning.

Magnetic functionality is another shared consideration. The featured models support compatible MagSafe chargers and accessories, including magnetic mounts and wallets. However, magnet grades, arrangements, and attachment specifications differ between models.

These distinctions allow buyers to consider not only whether a case supports MagSafe accessories, but also how its stand mechanism and exterior design suit everyday habits.

Evaluating Durability, Handling, and Design

Expert Consumers’ evaluation considers the practical trade-offs of integrated stand cases. A built-in stand can reduce the need for additional accessories, but it also introduces a moving component that should be evaluated for convenience, durability, and comfort.

Stand construction varies across the lineup. Q3 Spin uses a rotating ring mechanism, while O3 Fitness offers additional tilt adjustment. Q3 Wind combines rotation with a wider opening range, and Q3 Silicone, Q3 VegSkin, and Q3 Air Essential provide their own approaches to rotating stand functionality.

Material choice also affects handling. The TORRAS magnetic stand case lineup includes soft silicone finishes, leather-inspired textures, and textured cushioning designs intended to address different preferences for grip and everyday carrying.

Manufacturer-stated testing offers additional product context. TORRAS reports 30,000 rotations for the Q3 Spin stand mechanism, although such figures should not be treated as guarantees of performance under every condition.

Protection features should also be considered separately from stand durability. Raised edges, cushioning, and reinforced construction may contribute to a case’s protective design, but the best choice ultimately depends on the intended phone model, handling preferences, and frequency of hands-free use.

A Complementary Screen-Protection Option

TORRAS also offers the SunView AR Ultra Screen Protector for iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, as well as iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.

The protector incorporates seven anti-reflective layers and two anti-fouling layers. TORRAS specifies film-only reflectance below 0.8%, light transmittance above 95%, and approximately 97% coverage through its 2.5D silk-screened glass.

Designed to reduce distracting reflections and fingerprint oils, the protector offers a complementary option for users who frequently check maps, messages, workout information, or camera previews outdoors.

Choosing a Magnetic Stand Case

Expert Consumers’ recognition of TORRAS highlights the growing importance of integrated stand functionality in everyday phone accessories. Rather than selecting a case solely for its appearance or magnetic attachment, buyers can consider viewing flexibility, stand construction, material feel, charging compatibility, and intended use.

The TORRAS Ostand lineup provides several approaches to these priorities. Q3 Spin emphasizes rotating viewing positions, O3 Fitness adds movement and grip flexibility, Q3 Silicone and Q3 Wind focus on comfortable handling, Q3 VegSkin combines functionality with a refined finish, and Q3 Air Essential balances adjustable viewing with textured grip and cushioning.

For consumers comparing magnetic stand cases for iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, the most suitable option depends on viewing preferences, magnetic accessory compatibility, and everyday handling. Shoppers can explore the TORRAS Magnetic Stand Case to learn more about its integrated stand functionality and magnetic features.

The full review, including detailed product comparisons and buying considerations, is available at the Expert Consumers site.

About TORRAS

TORRAS creates technology accessories that combine protection, thoughtful engineering, and practical everyday function. Across the Q3 Air, Q3 Air Pro, and Ostand product lines, the brand challenges the idea that better protection must mean more bulk, while using Ostand to make hands-free use and spontaneous content capture part of daily life.

About ExpertConsumers.org: Expert Consumers delivers news and insights on consumer products and services. As an affiliate, Expert Consumers may earn commissions from sales generated using links provided.

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SOURCE ExpertConsumers.org

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2026 China Marine Economy Expo Kicks Off: Embarking Together on a Journey Toward Digital and Smart Ocean

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October 24, 2026

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SHENZHEN, China, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On October 22, Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center was illuminated in a deep ocean blue as the 2026 China Marine Economy Expo—themed “Digital and Smart Ocean: Co-creating a Sustainable Future”—officially opened. Spanning an exhibition area of 50,000 square meters, the expo hosts over 350 enterprises and is expected to attract 25,000 professional visits. It focuses on core marine sectors and cutting-edge fields, featuring eight exhibition zones including integrated deep-sea and far-sea energy development and application, green shipping and low-carbon logistics, marine electronic information, marine ecology and sustainable development, offshore applications of the low-altitude economy, full-space marine monitoring and disaster early warning, marine biomedicine, and modern marine services and coastal cultural tourism, as well as three specialized exhibition zones dedicated to international participation, industrial clusters, and accelerated technological innovation, which together present the complete ecosystem of marine industries across their entire value chain.

The international zone stands as one of the most prominent core zones. For the first time, China Marine Economy Expo has introduced a Guest Country of Honor mechanism, with France serving as the inaugural honoree. France pavilion offers an immersive experience of its Mission Neptune, and showcases the achievements of Sino-French cooperation in deep-sea research, polar affairs, marine engineering, digital marine technologies, etc. in collaboration with Deep Blue Voyager 2035 global ocean expedition (an international cooperation initiative under UN Ocean Decade spearheaded by China Ocean Mineral Resources R&D Association) and Fujian Ocean Innovation Center.

Hainan, as the inaugural Guest Province of Honor, has brought its leading enterprises to the expo. The enterprises unveil solutions in deep-sea oil and gas, marine renewable energy, deep-sea equipment manufacturing, marine tourism, fisheries, modern marine services, marine biomedicine, subsea embodied-AI robots, large AI models for marine application, quantum-based marine communication and navigation, as well as progress in the development of service and support bases for South China Sea resource exploration, and maritime search and rescue facilities.

Many leading Chinese enterprises, industry front runners and emerging companies are present to demonstrate their capabilities.

Enterprises including China Merchants Group, China Communications Construction Group, China International Marine Containers, and Shenzhen Mawan Smart Port present innovations in smart shipping, offshore engineering and port operations. Tech companies like China Telecom, Huawei, Hikvision and China Unicom introduce cross-industry solutions covering large marine AI models, open sea networked communications, subsea cables and underwater connectors, and digital twin technology for the marine environment.

Underwater robotics section offers a particularly immersive experience. Companies such as CRRC SMD, Boya Gongdao, VVLAI, Sealien Robotics, Seahi, T-SEA Tech, QYSEA Technology, Chasing Innovation, and Wujiang Ocean showcase a diverse range of equipment from consumer-grade robots to 6,000 m industrial-grade submersibles, deep-sea trenching gear, and autonomous underwater exploration and imaging installations. Shenzhen Energy Group highlights a project integrating seawater electrolysis for hydrogen production with offshore wind power generation. SANYA Oceanographic Laboratory presents its Magic Needle large AI model for the South China Sea. ZJU-Hengyi Global Innovation Research Center, Zhejiang University features Haihong II deep-sea unmanned submersible.

There is also a wealth of standout innovations in marine materials and parts. Exhibits such as heavy plates for offshore engineering from Baosteel Zhanjiang Steel, deep-sea robotic arms from KathayBot, deep-sea optoelectronic connectors from Lansuo Technology, pressure resistant spherical hulls from Yancheng Huida Glass Instrument, and solid buoyancy materials from T21 offer visitors a glimpse into the essential materials and parts that underpin China’s major national equipment. Professional service organizations including China Classification Society, China Rescue & Salvage, and Shenzhen Court of International Arbitration provide expertise in areas ranging from testing and certification to emergency response, commercial arbitration, and legal services. Additionally, regional delegations from Guangdong, Hainan, Shanghai, Zhejiang, Shenzhen’s Dapeng and Bao’an districts, Huizhou, and Shantou stage a diverse array of marine projects and technological innovations.

Meanwhile, the 2026 Shenzhen Global Marine Economy Forum, serving as a premier platform for international exchanges within China Marine Economy Expo, took place from October 22 to 23. Nearly 50 high-level representatives and professionals from more than 10 countries and regions engaged in in-depth discussions to advance initiatives related to ecological conservation, the resilience of coastal cities, the value of blue carbon, blue finance, and sustainable urban development.

Industry matchmaking and investment promotion efforts also advance steadily, exemplified by events including International Shipping and Cross-Border Trade Matchmaking, Inaugural Greater Bay Area Blue Ocean Summit on University Sci-Tech Innovation and Capital, investment and financing roadshows by marine SMEs, and Investment Promotion for Shenzhen’s Marine Industries. Notably, the 2026 Investment Promotion for Shenzhen’s Marine Industries—held on October 23 and co-hosted by the Shenzhen Municipal Bureau of Marine Development and the Authority of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone, with the support of Bao’an, Longgang and Guangming districts—attracted representatives from around 100 enterprises and organizations specializing in high-end shipping, new energy vessels, deep-sea equipment and other related sectors.

From the technological feast inside exhibition halls to forums covering global ocean governance, blue finance and APEC regional cooperation, and further to city-wide ocean week, yacht shows and public science outreach activities, this edition of China Marine Economy Expo boasts both in-depth professional content for the marine sector and inclusive public experiences with a humanistic touch. It serves not only as a vivid microcosm of the transformation and advancement of China’s marine industries, but also as a vital link for deepening global maritime cooperation and venturing into deep ocean. By gathering guests from all over the world for a journey toward digitally-empowered smart ocean governance, the event ushers in a new chapter of high-quality development in the global marine economy.

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SOURCE 2026 China Marine Economy Expo (CMEE)

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