UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has announced Expo Guadalajara as its newest Diamond Sponsor, marking a historic milestone as the first Diamond Sponsor from Latin America.
Based in Mexico, Expo Guadalajara is the largest exhibition and convention venue in the country and across Central and South America. Under the multi-year Diamond Sponsorship Agreement, the venue will benefit from year-round global visibility and promotion across UFI’s international events, platforms, and initiatives. The partnership underscores Expo Guadalajara’s long-term commitment to the exhibition and business events industry while enabling UFI to further strengthen its engagement with the global exhibitions community.
Commenting on the announcement, Elena Hurtado, Managing Director of Expo Guadalajara, stated that UFI’s mission to support and advance the exhibition industry closely aligns with the venue’s long-term vision. She noted that becoming a Diamond Sponsor represents a strategic step in Expo Guadalajara’s internationalisation efforts, aimed at building stronger global partnerships with industry leaders as part of its 2050 strategy.
Hurtado also highlighted Expo Guadalajara’s leadership in sustainability and social responsibility, pointing out that it is the first venue in Mexico to implement a comprehensive sustainability strategy and establish a dedicated social foundation, reinforcing its commitment to a more human, conscious, and sustainable MICE industry.
Welcoming the new sponsor, Panittha Buri, President of UFI, said that Diamond Sponsors play a vital role in advancing UFI’s mission. She expressed delight at welcoming Expo Guadalajara into this prestigious group, noting that the sponsorship further strengthens an already long-standing relationship between the two organisations.
The collaboration will extend beyond sponsorship, with Expo Guadalajara also set to host the 94th UFI Global Congress in 2027, further cementing its role as a key hub for the global exhibition industry. UFI stated that it looks forward to working closely with Expo Guadalajara, its members across Central, South, and North America, and its regional leadership to support the continued growth and development of the exhibition industry in the region.
This partnership represents a significant step forward in UFI’s global outreach and highlights Latin America’s growing influence within the international exhibitions and business events landscape.
