Conxemar 2026 in Vigo: dates, key facts, and economic impact

Conxemar 2026: dates, schedule, and location

• Dates: Tuesday, October 6; Wednesday, October 7; and Thursday, October 8, 2026.

• Schedule: Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00 to 18:00 h; Thursday from 10:00 to 16:00 h.

• Location: IFEVI (Vigo Exhibition Centre), Avenida do Aeroporto 772, Vigo.

• Edition: 27th edition, under the international motto «Where Blue Business Happens».

• Access: strictly professional (B2B) event exclusively aimed at accredited industry professionals aged 18 and over. Please note that tickets are not sold to the general public or individuals at the box office.

• Pre-event Congress: Conxemar FAO MAPA International Congress, scheduled for October 5 at Afundación Vigo Headquarters.

What is Conxemar and what happens at the fair

A global showcase for frozen seafood products

Conxemar brings together importers, exporters, distributors, processors, and auxiliary industries (refrigeration technology, packaging, machinery, and logistics) every year. In its 2026 edition, the organization consolidates its global positioning by opening new exhibition spaces and increasing the presence of international delegations.

Program and parallel activities

• Presentations, panel discussions, and showcookings throughout the three days.

• International buyers program: in 2025 it grew from 13 to 29 countries and from 35 to 50 invited buyers.

• Online B2B meetings: taking place between September 21 and October 18, 2026.

Conxemar 2026 in numbers

Record in 2025 and new record expected in 2026

The 2025 edition closed with 30,405 visitors, over 12% more than the previous year, and 812 exhibitors from 46 countries. For 2026, the organization has already confirmed over 600 exhibiting companies from more than 40 countries, with the venue's 37,000 m² fully occupied and slightly over 30.000 professional visitors expected.

Direct economic impact, income, and employment

According to the socioeconomic impact report prepared by the ARDÁN Chair of the University of Vigo, the fair generated a total impact of 98.4 million euros in global output and 53.4 million euros in gross value added (income). This boost in activity equals approximately 0.4% of the Vigo metropolitan area's annual GDP, concentrated in just three days of direct operations.

The effect on employment and service mobilization is equally remarkable: the event supports over 1,240 full-time equivalent jobs in sectors such as setup, transport, security, catering, and corporate services. Additionally, average spending per visitor is estimated at 676.5 euros, directly benefiting hospitality, fine dining, and transportation in Vigo and nearby municipalities.

Driver effect on the auxiliary seafood industry

Conxemar's relevance extends beyond the IFEVI venue. The fair consolidates Vigo as a hub for the European sea-industry sector. The ecosystem made up of shipyards, industrial refrigeration companies, packaging technology, international freight forwarders, and food quality laboratories finds in this event its largest annual showcase to close multi-million deals and establish strategic alliances.

Urban dynamism, accommodation, and real estate outlook

Conxemar not only creates a major temporary impact, but also reflects the strong economic activity that Vigo maintains year-round in the sea-industry sector. This dynamism consistently attracts professionals and executives requiring temporary accommodation or considering relocating to the city, making the fair a natural gateway to the local real estate market. The massive influx of visitors during the event also drives high demand that exceeds urban hotel capacity and spreads across the Ría and Val Miñor.

Stable employment and housing demand

The seafood sector represents a strategic pillar in Vigo, accounting for over 10% of regional revenue. The city's consolidation as an industrial and fishing hub constantly attracts relocated professionals and executives, boosting general economic activity and demand in the residential market.

Accommodation pressure: seasonal rentals and medium-term stays

During the event dates, accommodation demand exceeds the city center's hotel capacity. Bookings in central Vigo reach near-full occupancy, shifting high demand to coastal municipalities along the Ría and Val Miñor, especially Nigrán and Baiona, as well as Redondela, Cangas, and Moaña. This high concentration causes average accommodation rates to rise significantly compared to standard mid-season rates.

This professional mobility context reinforces interest in corporate seasonal rentals and residential investment in strategic areas of the city and its surroundings.

A city investing in its future

The fairgrounds are advancing a Strategic Plan 2026-2035 to expand halls and access routes, consolidating Vigo as an international hub. This continuous growth drives the arrival of professionals with diverse housing and accommodation needs, making exploring the city's different areas essential to finding the right option:

• Downtown and prime areas: To explore residential options and investments in the most exclusive areas, check our guide on where to live or invest in the Ría de Vigo.

• Residential surroundings: If you would like to know established neighborhoods with the best amenities and educational options for families, explore our selection of recommended residential areas.

• Val Miñor: Exclusive residential environments just minutes from Vigo. To learn about single-family home opportunities, discover the options for living in Nigrán or the benefits of living in Baiona.

Looking for a home or investment in Vigo? Let's talk

At Engel & Völkers Vigo, we advise you on the local market. If Conxemar 2026 has prompted you to consider Vigo for your next investment or residence, contact us and we will offer tailored solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Conxemar 2026

When is Conxemar 2026?

Conxemar 2026 takes place from October 6 to 8, 2026, in Vigo.

Where is Conxemar held?

At IFEVI (Vigo Exhibition Centre), located at Avenida do Aeroporto 772.

What are the hours for Conxemar 2026?

Tuesday, October 6, and Wednesday, October 7, from 10:00 to 18:00. Thursday, October 8, from 10:00 to 16:00.

Is the fair open to the general public?

No. It is a strictly professional (B2B) trade fair reserved for companies, accredited industry professionals, and individuals over 18 years of age. General public admission tickets are not available for purchase at the box office without prior professional accreditation.

What economic and employment impact does the fair generate?

According to the University of Vigo study on the 2025 edition, the fair generated 98.4 million euros in output, 53.4 million in income, and 1,246 jobs.

Where to stay during Conxemar?

Book well in advance: hotels fill up weeks before the fair, and rates increase significantly during these dates.

How to get to Vigo for Conxemar?

By road, train, or plane. The fair organizers noted that same-day round-trip flights are not available for many European cities, so many visitors need to stay overnight in the city.