Expanding Global Strategy to Engage More International Participants

To adapt to the increasingly diversified global manufacturing ecosystem, the SIMTOS Secretariat led by the Korea Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association (KOMMA) is accelerating its efforts to attract leading international companies and create more meaningful business matchmaking opportunities with overseas buyers. For SIMTOS 2026, the Secretariat plans to reinforce its position as a “global hub for production and manufacturing business” by implementing a variety of impactful programs such as tailored global marketing initiatives, including the expansion of national pavilions and invitations to overseas buyers with high purchasing power. 

SIMTOS 2026 Draws Global Attention Amid Shifting Supply Chains

As global supply chains undergo rapid transformation and product development cycles accelerate, SIMTOS 2026 is placing a stronger emphasis on globalization. In today’s manufacturing landscape, the importance of platforms that connect international industrial networks has grown significantly. Recognizing this, both Korean and international companies have increasingly turned to SIMTOS as a strategic venue to discover new markets, forge partnerships, and stay ahead in the evolving global supply chain environment.

Seven Key Countries, Including Japan, Germany, and India, Set to Join SIMTOS with National Pavilions

Countries worldwide are actively setting up national pavilions at major international trade shows as part of efforts to enhance the competitiveness of their manufacturing sectors and drive exports. SIMTOS has attracted national pavilions from leading manufacturing nations such as Germany, Italy, China, and Taiwan. Through these initiatives, participating countries have expanded their reach into the Korean market while fostering connections with buyers from around the globe.

Japan and India have officially confirmed their participation in SIMTOS 2026 through national pavilions. Known for their robust manufacturing industries and strong global demand, these countries are heightening expectations among exhibitors and attendees alike. In addition, the United States and Turkiye are positively considering joining with their own pavilions, signaling a rapid push toward the globalization of the exhibition.

National pavilions serve as a gateway for outstanding small and medium-sized manufacturers from around the world to take part in the exhibition, helping to broaden the range of showcased products. For visitors, they present a chance to explore cutting-edge companies from countries not commonly represented, offering a valuable platform to expand global business networks.

Expanding Invitations to Overseas Buyers to Increase Exports by Korean Manufacturers

SIMTOS 2026 is set to enhance its role by not only attracting global companies but also by intensifying efforts to bring high-potential international buyers to the show floor. Beyond discovering new leads, the exhibition plans to increase the number of invited returning buyers, driving exports. In particular, the “Overseas Buyer Invitation Support Program,” which enables participating companies to invite buyers with proven purchasing power directly, will see its scale grow by over 34% compared to the previous events.

In tandem, SIMTOS 2026 will roll out press conferences and roadshows involving major manufacturing hubs such as Germany, Thailand, and India. These promotional activities will spotlight the exhibition’s global relevance, emphasize the values it offers to participants, and introduce key categories of displayed products to potential buyers and companies in these countries. Such global outreach is expected to draw in international buyers with real purchasing intent.

Elevating Global Standing and Influence through Side Events

A major initiative aimed at reinforcing SIMTOS 2026’s global presence is the Global Digital Manufacturing Conference, scheduled to take place alongside the main exhibition. As part of efforts to solidify SIMTOS’s identity as a dynamic marketing platform that allows attendees to see, hear, and experience products, technologies, and solutions, the Secretariat plan to invite prominent figures from global manufacturers, including leaders of international associations and federations in the fields of metalworking and production.

This article highlights a range of globalization strategies that SIMTOS 2026 is preparing to implement. By facilitating meaningful engagement between domestic and international exhibitors and buyers, and by providing immersive opportunities to explore innovative technologies and solutions, SIMTOS is set to play a pivotal role in transforming itself into a truly global platform for manufacturing excellence.?