The 2026 Budapest Silk Civilization Dialogue & Best from China – China Intangible Cultural Heritage, Tourism & Cultural Creativity Expo was held in Budapest, Hungary, from June 19 to 21.

Xiangning, a county in Linfen city, Shanxi province, completed its first formal international appearance by showcasing its cultural tourism achievements abroad via a promotional conference during the expo.

The county delegation presented its industries, cultural tourism, and intangible heritage resources through documentary screenings, focusing on industrial transformation, cultural preservation, and global engagement.

Huang Lingxiang, director of the Xiangning's cultural and tourism bureau, addresses attendees at the promotional event. [Photo/Linfen cultural and tourism bureau]

Historically rooted in coal mining, Xiangning has cultivated four distinct industries: Yunqiu Mountain Scenic Area, winemaking, zisha pottery (purple clay), and coal.

Yunqiu Mountain is a 5A-rated national scenic area paired with outdoor sports events; its nearly 6,000-acre vineyards produce wines exported to various countries. Rich purple clay deposits have enabled the establishment of a pottery-focused industrial town, home to 23 enterprises and 66 artisans.

Visitors browse Xiangning Zisha pottery exhibits. [Photo/Linfen cultural and tourism bureau]

At the exhibition, Xiangning featured creative products including zisha pottery and wine, while local enterprises engaged in cooperation talks with Hungarian buyers and cultural tourism organizations.

With its transportation infrastructure steadily improving, a general aviation airport is set to launch within this year. Officials extended invitations to central and eastern European merchants to visit Xiangning for tourism and investment opportunities.