China’s Science Fiction Scene Takes Center Stage at Beijing Convention

Beijing is set to host the China Science Fiction Convention 2026 from March 27 to 29, highlighting the nation’s rapidly growing science fiction industry and its increasing global influence. The convention will feature discussions on embodied intelligence, showcase new sci-fi movies like “Missions to the Moon,” and include a sci-fi game industry forum aimed at fostering innovation and market growth Xinhua.

Rising Industry and International Collaboration

China’s science fiction industry has exceeded 100 billion yuan (approximately $14.5 billion USD) in scale for three consecutive years, demonstrating significant growth and economic impact Xinhua. The convention underscores a broader trend of sci-fi expanding beyond traditional mediums like books and film, integrating into public life through games, cultural tourism, and derivative products.

Promotional Event for Emerging Writers

In a related event on March 26, a promotional event titled “Emerging Chinese Science Fiction Writers: An International Outlook” will be held at PAGEONE Bookstore in Beijing’s Qianmen area. The event aims to introduce a new generation of Chinese sci-fi authors to international audiences and promote cross-cultural exchange within the genre.

Featured Authors

The promotional event will spotlight seven emerging Chinese science fiction writers: Chen Qiufan (author of Waste Tide), Liang Qingsan (author of The Gun of the Beginning’s End), Bao Shu (author of The Redemption of Time), Gu Shi (author of 2128 Overture), Wang Weilian (author of Wild Future), Shen Dacheng (author of The Ones in Remembrance), and Liang Ling (author of Anywhere Station). They will be joined by established authors Liu Cixin (author of The Three-Body Problem) and Wang Jinkang (author of Seeds of Mercury), alongside other scholars in the field.

Global Participation

The event will include participation from international publishers, translators, and critics from the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Chile, who will offer insights into the global reception and potential of Chinese science fiction. The event will also be livestreamed via Zoom, expanding its reach to a wider audience.

“Folding Beijing” Adaptation Still in Development

Interest in Chinese science fiction continues to grow internationally, as evidenced by the ongoing development of a film adaptation of Hao Jingfang’s award-winning novelette, “Folding Beijing” (originally published in 2012 and translated into English by Ken Liu in 2015). The film, titled “Folding City,” is being produced by Wanda Media and directed by Josh Kim, but remains in development as of March 2026 Wikipedia.