Chinese products integrating smart technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation with local application scenarios in Africa drew crowds of industry professionals and buyers from across the globe at Securex South Africa 2026, a leading security industry expo held in Johannesburg from June 2 to 4.
This year's event featured a China Pavilion for the first time, with many Chinese companies showing their latest innovations in smart security and rescue.
Among the highlights was an ultra-high-speed palm print and fingerprint comparison system. Despite its small size, the system can complete large-scale identity verification in a very short time.
Unmanned surface vessels and water rescue robots also attracted crowds for hands-on experiences. These solutions offer strong practical value for South Africa, given its long coastline and abundant port resources.
"Well, I think China by far and away leads the world in terms of technology and advancements in technology. And what's really encouraging to see a lot of new Chinese products on display here, how they've incorporated artificial intelligence and automation into their products and services," said Josh Low, director of the expo organizer.
"With the development of China's AI security technology, we are not only exporting our security solutions overseas but also bringing Chinese technology and experience to the world," said Zheng Jie, a Chinese exhibitor.
"More Chinese companies are participating in the expo, and we are increasingly highly valued; we can also feel that Africa's recognition of us is on the rise," said Cheng Weijie, another Chinese exhibitor.
As demand for border management and emergency rescue continues to rise in Africa, Chinese companies are expected to bring more mature, practical, and feasible Chinese solutions to the continent.
Chinese smart products shine at security expo in South Africa
The first shipment of exhibits for the 4th China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) successfully cleared customs in Beijing, ready for the upcoming global trade event.
The shipment arrived from France, containing 1:20-scale aircraft models of Airbus A220 and A320 commercial jets, alongside promotional product literature.
The cargo, valued at approximately 150,000 yuan (about 22,170 U.S. dollars), went through customs clearance last Friday via the "integrated customs clearance" and the "ATA carnet" system -- an international customs document that permits temporary, duty-free import.
"Focusing on key logistics stages such as warehousing and temporary storage of exhibits, we have established a dedicated storage zone for CISCE exhibits. This ensures that the goods remain safe and secure, without damages incurred when in storage," said Wei Xiaohe, an officer from Beijing Capital Airport Customs.
The upcoming expo is scheduled to run from June 22 to 26 in Chinese capital Beijing, and 676 domestic and international players in the supply chain, specialized firms, and industry institutions from 85 countries, regions, and international organizations have already confirmed the participation.
Foreign exhibitors account for 36.5 percent of total participants, with Fortune Global 500 companies and industry-leading enterprises making up over 65 percent of the roster.
To facilitate smoother operations for global firms, Beijing Customs recently rolled out 14 supportive measures. Key policies include allowing on-site sampling and trials for eligible pre-packaged food and cosmetics, as well as tax exemptions for certain qualifying consumable exhibits.
"From January to May, Beijing Customs oversaw 46 inbound and outbound exhibitions, a 48 percent increase year on year. The total value of imports and exports overseen by Beijing Customs stood at approximately 24.2 billion yuan (about 3.68 billion U.S. dollars), up 121 percent year on year," said Yang Fan, deputy chief of the first exhibits supervision section at Beijing Convention and Exhibition Center Customs.
As the world's first national-level exhibition focusing on supply chains, the CISCE is an internationally shared public product.
First held in 2023, the expo has contributed to building more secure, stable, open and inclusive global industrial and supply chains, according to the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade.
First exhibits for 4th China International Supply Chain Expo complete customs clearance
