The Asia International Hemp Expo and Forum (AIHEF) takes place in Tokyo for the first time in 2026 – a sign of how dynamic the Asian hemp market has become. From November 18–20, 2026, the trade fair opens its doors to several thousand industry professionals and hundreds of exhibitors from around the world. For anyone interested in international hemp markets, technologies, and regulatory developments, this is a key event on the calendar.
What to expect
The AIHEF combines a large product exhibition with an extensive conference program. In the exhibition halls, companies present themselves from genetics, cultivation technology, extraction equipment, CBD products, cosmetics, food, textiles, and building materials. The accompanying forum brings together regulatory authorities, research, and industry – with a focus on market opportunities across Asia, particularly in Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore.
Japan itself is an interesting focal point: the market for CBD products has been growing double digits for years, while legislation simultaneously tightens THC limits and approval procedures. The AIHEF in Tokyo accompanies this period of upheaval and helps Japanese companies network with international supply chains. For European and other international exhibitors, this is a strategic entry point into one of the region’s most dynamic markets.
Location and travel
The exact venue in Tokyo will be announced soon. Tokyo boasts excellent international infrastructure: several major airports (Narita, Haneda), a dense network of public transportation, and numerous hotels make travel straightforward. Those traveling from Europe should expect flight times of approximately 12 to 14 hours. The best time to travel is November – the weather in Tokyo is mild and pleasant then.
Tickets and prices
Ticket information and price categories will be published by the organizers. Typically, large trade fairs like the AIHEF offer different types of access: day tickets for visitors, conference passes for the forum program, and special rates for exhibitors. Early-bird discounts are common at international trade shows – it’s worth checking the official website regularly.
Why this event?
The AIHEF is one of Asia’s most established hemp trade fairs and attracts a highly qualified audience: entrepreneurs, scientists, government representatives, and investors. The move to Tokyo underscores Japan’s growing importance as a market and innovation hub. While many European cannabis events focus on consumption and legalization, the AIHEF offers a different perspective: it’s about value creation, technology, and regulatory frameworks in one of the world’s wealthiest and most developed markets.
Anyone interested in international business relationships, cultivation techniques, extraction methods, or developing new markets will make contacts here and identify trends that often don’t reach Europe for years. Early planning is particularly important for exhibitors and delegations – trade fair booth spaces and hotels in Tokyo fill up quickly.
All details and tickets on the event page | Official website of the organizers
