Scalpers and scorching heat mark China's biggest AI conference
The World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai drew unprecedented crowds despite temperatures nearing 40°C. Traffic halted 2km from the Shanghai Expo Centre as attendees abandoned taxis to walk. Tickets officially priced at 168 yuan were scalped for over 1,000 yuan, bought not only by industry insiders but also by parents and young graduates. SCMP reporter Ann Cao, covering her sixth WAIC, called it the hottest and most vibrant since its 2018 inception, fueled by top-leader endorsement and global agentic AI frenzy.
Key facts
- WAIC 2024 held in Shanghai at Shanghai Expo Centre and World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre.
- Temperatures neared 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Traffic stopped 2km from the venue on the first day, Friday.
- Official ticket price: 168 yuan (US$24.82); scalped for over 1,000 yuan.
- Attendees included industry insiders, parents, and young graduates.
- Ann Cao of SCMP covered her sixth WAIC.
- Conference described as hottest, most crowded, and most vibrant since 2018.
- Endorsement from top leader and global agentic AI frenzy boosted enthusiasm.
Entities
Institutions
- SCMP
- World Artificial Intelligence Conference
- Shanghai Expo Centre
- World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre
Locations
- Shanghai
- China
- Shanghai Expo Centre
- World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre