Key Trends from Foshan’s Ceramic Trade Fairs 2025

Every year, ceramic trade fairs are held in China, where key manufacturers showcase the latest technologies and tile designs that are set to shape future market trends. These events attract buyers and manufacturers from around the world, eager to discover new innovations and stay ahead of industry shifts. 

This year, our production team attended several key events, including the Foshan Tanzhou Uniceramics Expo, Cerambath, and the Canton Fair, to explore innovations and identify emerging trends. 

Let’s take a closer look at the key trends that are set to shape the industry! 

Technological Trends 

1. Advancements in 3D Inkjet Printing 

China continues to lead in developing surface innovations that enhance the richness and depth of tiles. This year, 3D inkjet technology has seen further breakthroughs in aligning texture with design. 

Image courtesy of Taocheng Newspaper, Foshan Tanzhou Ceramics Exhibition.

By combining positioning glue dry particles with deep ink techniques, manufacturers are now able to create tiles that feature both matte and glossy finishes in a single tile. This layered effect brings out intricate details and delivers a striking visual contrast that adds dimension and sophistication to any space. 

2. Digital Glaze Breakthrough      

Structured tiles no longer require physical moulds, thanks to breakthroughs in digital glaze technology. At the Uniceramics Expo, digital glaze spraying equipment was used to print realistic 3D concave and convex textures directly onto tile surfaces. These digitally printed textures create a tactile, three-dimensional effect that closely mimics the look and feel of moulded tiles. 

Image courtesy of Taocheng Newspaper, Foshan Tanzhou Ceramics Exhibition.

This advancement marks a significant step forward for the industry. It is expected to accelerate innovation among glaze manufacturers and drive broader adoption of digital glazing techniques. 

Product Trends 

As a result of these technological innovations, we’ve observed significant product advancements, particularly in the following 3 key product trends.  

1. Marble Tiles 

Marble has always been a timeless favourite and a staple in tile design across customer segments. While it remains a classic, marble-inspired tiles are constantly being reimagined with new techniques and surface treatments. 

Image courtesy of Taocheng Newspaper, Foshan Tanzhou Ceramics Exhibition.

This year, there is a noticeable shift towards enhancing the tactile quality of marble-look tiles using advanced 3D inkjet technology. Instead of focusing solely on veining and colour, manufacturers are now replicating natural textures such as acid-washed and leather-finished surfaces. These innovations bring a more rustic, authentic feel to modern marble designs.  

2. Timber Tiles 

Image courtesy of Taocheng Newspaper, Foshan Tanzhou Ceramics Exhibition.

Digital glaze technology has significantly enhanced the surface texture of timber-look tiles, creating a light, delicate structure that is pleasing to the touch while maintaining the authentic appearance of natural wood. This innovation not only brings a more tactile experience but also makes maintenance and cleaning much easier, adding practicality to the beauty of timber elements. 

3. Metallic Tiles

The use of 3D inkjet printing technology in metallic tiles is transforming the design landscape. By combining matt and glossy finishes, this technology enhances the depth and texture of tiles, creating a dynamic, layered surface. 

This advanced printing technique enables the creation of the oxidized appearance of metal plates, including rust marks and mottled textures that mimic the natural aging of metal. As a result, tiles exhibit a rich, tactile quality, offering a modern, versatile solution for a range of design applications. 

Other Key Product Trends

1. Decorative Tiles with Deep Mould Designs 

Image courtesy of Taocheng Newspaper, Foshan Tanzhou Ceramics Exhibition.

We’ve also noticed the rise of various moulded products. Deep moulds are being used to create fluted and ribbed stone effects, enhancing design elements in spaces like walk-in showers and bedroom headboards. These decorative tiles broaden the use of simple tiles, elevating the overall aesthetic and adding layers of sophistication. Additionally, this innovation increases the technological threshold, making replication more challenging. 

2. New Product Specifications 

Studio Jade

Each year, the tile market evolves with the introduction of new formats. For instance, the 800×1250 mm size began gaining traction in 2024, following the rise of 1200×1200 mm tiles in the previous year. At Heritage Ceramics, we’ve also introduced our 1200×2780 mm porcelain slabs as part of a multi-size collection. The increasing presence of these formats reflects not only ongoing innovation but also growing consumer receptiveness to varied tile sizes — opening up greater design flexibility and creative potential in spaces. 

Overall View of Key Trends in Foshan’s Ceramics Fairs 

The tile industry in Foshan, China, continues to show strong momentum, delivering both innovation and value to the global market. It’s no surprise that overseas buyers and manufacturers regularly attend these trade fairs to discover new products that can elevate their offerings and sharpen their marketing strategies. With the pace of development, we anticipate even greater advancements in the year ahead. 

While global trends can be identified, market preferences remain deeply influenced by geography. Each country brings its own unique consumer behaviors, design expectations, and functional requirements. At Heritage Ceramics, we work closely with our partners to go beyond simply following trends — co-creating products that align with regional needs and business goals.  

If you have yet to browse our latest Novelties Catalog, you may download here: https://heritageceramics.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Studio-Novelties-2025-eCatalog-low-res.pdf  

Explore the Heritage Ceramics Booth at Foshan Uniceramics Expo

For those who were unable to attend our recent product launch, we have prepared a special four-minute video to walk you through our booth. Whether you are recapping your visit or seeing it for the first time, we invite you to take this short virtual tour.