Adelaide University takes centre stage at international trade fair

Published on 11 September 2025 by Adelaide University
Adelaide University representatives including Adelaide University Pro Vice Chancellor, College of Engineering and IT Professor David Lewis, with Austrade General Manager, Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan Dominic Trindade, Australian Ambassador to Chin

The University has announced a new cultural partnership with the China Arts and Entertainment Group Ltd (CAEG) at the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS).

As well as celebrating the new cultural partnership with CAEG, the fair which runs from 10 to 14 September, is an opportunity to highlight the success of Adelaide University’s foundation institutions, the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia and shine a spotlight on future goals.

Professor David Lewis, Pro Vice Chancellor, College of Engineering and IT is leading the University’s delegation to the fair.

“Adelaide University’s partnership with the China Arts and Entertainment Group will make a global impact through educational excellence,” says Professor Lewis.

“Our ambition is to be one of Australia’s most connected universities through our actions and through the success and influence of our students, staff, researchers, partners and alumni community.”

The University, which opens its doors on 1 January 2026, is already making a name for itself on the global stage - reaching equal 82nd in the 2026 QS Rankings.

As part of a five-year memorandum of understanding Adelaide University and CAEG will explore a range of cultural opportunities in China and at the University’s Elder Conservatorium of Music and Performing Arts, including joint cross-cultural performances, professional development, talent exchange, work experience, internships and music/arts study tours.

Professor Luke Dollman, Associate Professor of Music at the Elder Conservatorium of Music and School of Performing Arts says the partnership will provide students with opportunities to grow their talent.

"The Elder Conservatorium of Music and Performing Arts offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, covering all professional areas of the music industry," says Professor Dolman.

"Our graduates hold positions of national and international influence as performers, composers, educators, scholars and administrators.

"The Elder Conservatorium is fully committed to the interests of its students and to its place within the wider artistic and educational environment."

CAEG has long played a leading role in China's international cultural exchanges. Each year it presents more than 5000 diverse performances, exhibitions and cultural activities domestically and internationally.

"As a major state-owned cultural enterprise in China, the Group has consistently upheld the mission and responsibility of telling China's stories well and conveying China's voice effectively," says CAEG Vice President Suchen Ji.

"We actively engage in international cultural exchange and cooperation, using art as a bridge for communication that transcends borders.

"This collaboration with Adelaide University aims to jointly cultivate versatile artistic talents from both China and Australia who possess an international perspective and can meet the demands of globalisation.

"It will bring unprecedented development opportunities for young people and students from both nations. We hope to work with Adelaide University to contribute to the cultivation of artistic talents with cross-cultural communication skills and outstanding talent."

More than 150 countries will attend CIFTIS from 10 to 14 September, promoting work in spaces like artificial intelligence, financial tech, health care and green development.

The Adelaide University delegation is proud to represent official guest country Australia at the fair and to share its story with the Chinese community.