China’s Equine Industry Summit Returns: A Bold Step Toward Global Equestrian Leadership

The 3rd CHCF China (Shanghai) International Equine Industry Summit reignited post-pandemic momentum, bringing global and Chinese leaders together to shape the future of equestrian sport and industry.

The exciting return on November 7-8, 2024 of the 3rd CHCF China (Shanghai) International Equine Industry Summit, a milestone event that reestablished China’s equestrian vision on the global stage. As the first high-level gathering of its kind since the pandemic, the summit brought together leaders from all equestrian disciplines—showcasing a renewed national commitment to industry excellence, talent development, and international exchange.

Co-chaired by Melissa Lu and YY Li, the organizing committee succeeded in creating not only a powerful forum, but a cross-cultural platform for knowledge sharing, business development, and sport advancement. Melissa Lu—also founder of the equestrian lifestyle brand ELLA—played a particularly instrumental role in shaping the summit's global footprint.

With deep-rooted relationships across Europe, North America, and Asia, Melissa was key in bringing top-tier international experts to China, ensuring that voices from around the world were present to bring world renown expertise to support and enable the development of the China equestrian industry. Her ability to serve as a “culture translator” helped bridge East and West—fostering genuine dialogue, trust, and long-term opportunity.
“Knowledge exchange is key to advancing equestrian sports in China. Together we can celebrate our shared passion!” Melissa remarked, reflecting the summit’s vision of openness and global alignment.

Under the theme “Sharing the Future, Connecting the World on Horseback,” the summit featured keynote panels with Martin Fuchs, Swiss Olympian and global show jumping champion; Michael Stone, President of Wellington International, one of world’s most successful equestrian IP and leading equestrian destination in the world with the highly anticipated “Winter Equestrian Festival” 12 continuous weeks of shows equestrians fondly call the “WEF”; and Merrick Haydon, a renowned sports marketing strategist with specialist expertise in international equestrian PR and sponsorship for some of the most coveted names like Rolex. These global leaders shared insights on equestrian development and strategies at the highest levels.

Equally vital were expertise shared include notable names such as Alex Hua Tian, China’s first Olympic Eventer, who offered practical perspectives and support for young riders wanting to develop in the sport and international performance.   In addition, YY Li, Chief Editor of Horsemanship Magazine delivered the annual statistical industry update that shows the immense growth and potential of the China market.  Chinese club owners, educators, and investors also shared experiences, challenges, and ambitions—signaling a strong local commitment to elevating the equestrian profession.

With record attendance, unprecedented international participation, and a reinvigorated focus on equine business, culture, and sport, the CHCF Summit has firmly positioned itself as China’s most influential equestrian industry forum—and a bellwether of where the sport is heading next.

“Sharing the Future, Connecting the World on Horseback” – CHCF Summit Theme