China's science fiction sector reached a milestone 126.1 billion yuan ($17.4 billion) in 2025 revenue, marking a 15.7% annual growth, as revealed at the 2026 China Science Fiction Convention opening in Beijing. The three-day event at Shougang Park – a symbol of industrial-to-cultural transformation – showcases the deepening synergy between speculative fiction and cutting-edge innovation.
A robotic host named "Huanhuan" inaugurated proceedings through a satellite-linked display system, orchestrating a synchronized "ground-to-space" visual spectacle that bridged terrestrial and orbital audiences. The convention's programming emphasizes practical applications, featuring dialogues between geologist Liu Jiaqi, astronaut Zhao Chuandong, and The Three-Body Problem author Liu Cixin.
Industry analysts note the sector's growth aligns with China's advancements in AI, space exploration, and green energy – themes increasingly reflected in domestic sci-fi narratives. "This isn't just entertainment," noted convention organizer Zhang Wei. "It's becoming a testing ground for tomorrow's technologies."
