China approves 6GHz band trial spectrum for 6G development

China has taken a step forward in next-generation telecommunications by approving trial spectrum in the 6GHz band for 6G technology development, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said on Friday.

The approval, granted to the IMT-2030 (6G) promotion group, authorizes 6G technology trials in selected regions. The move is aimed at advancing technical research, testing and validation based on the key scenarios and performance indicators defined by the International Telecommunication Union for 6G.

The spectrum allocation is expected to accelerate China's efforts in 6G research and development, standardization and industrialization, and to promote high-quality development of the country's 6G sector, the ministry said.

The WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 Expo welcomed its first public open day on Wednesday at the National Exhibition and Convention Center, offering nearly 100 hands-on skill experiences across 300 interactive booths.

With the 48th WorldSkills Competition officially underway, the expo has transformed the center into a lively hub of skills demonstration and exchange.

Inside the China Pavilion, exhibits trace the evolution of Chinese craftsmanship from ancient times to the present, centered on the Four Great Inventions, from movable-type printing to modern communications, from the ancient compass to Beidou satellite navigation, from papermaking techniques to artificial intelligence, and from the invention of gunpowder to today's cutting-edge energy technologies. The displays illustrate the continuous journey of Chinese skills throughout the ages.

Among the hands-on experiences is the traditional "woodblock watermark printing" technique, which uses precisely carved blocks to reproduce Chinese paintings and calligraphy. Visitors can print the official WorldSkills Competition logo onto specially designed hanging scrolls as a unique souvenir.

A total of 31 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities from across China have brought their signature skills to the expo. The range is vast, from interactive robots representing advanced technology, to traditional crafts such as Guangxi Zhuang brocade and Hainan coconut carving. Walking through the exhibition, visitors can witness ancient mastery of exquisite craftsmanship brought to life side by side with creative innovations of the digital age.

Companies are demonstrating their latest technologies and products, highlighting the role of skills in industry and everyday life and showcasing how talent is cultivated from the shop floor up. Dedicated hands-on zones invite participants to get directly involved, whether it is practicing traditional crafts, testing skills similar to those used in the competition, trying digital dental restoration, controlling robots, or creating 3D-printed items.

The expo also features international pavilions and global skills partner exhibits, bringing together achievements from around the world and encouraging the shared exploration in skills development.

This year's WorldSkills Competition events will conclude on Sunday.