44th MCE – Mostra Convegno Expocomfort Concludes with Record International Attendance

The 44th edition of MCE – Mostra Convegno Expocomfort has concluded at Fiera Milano, marking another milestone for one of the most established international trade fairs in the civil and industrial plant engineering sector. The event brought together stakeholders across the HVAC+R, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water systems value chain, consolidating its role as a key reference point for industry professionals worldwide.

Strong Turnout and Economic Significance
The edition attracted over 1,600 exhibitors and approximately 120,000 visitors, with more than 35% travelling from outside Italy. International representation was particularly notable, with companies from 49 countries in attendance and over 38,000 visitors from 123 nations — a 6% increase compared to the previous edition. Participation from the Middle East was especially prominent.

A Strategic Report produced by TEHA Group (The European House – Ambrosetti) underscored the sector's weight in the Italian economy, estimating revenues of approximately €83 billion, €27 billion in added value, and around 400,000 jobs supported nationally.

A Broad Conference Programme
The event's conference programme addressed a range of current industry issues, including regulatory developments, incentive frameworks such as the forthcoming Conto Termico 3.0, the implementation of European EPBD IV directives, the outlook for heat pump technology both in Italy and globally, and the growing intersection of HVAC systems with digitalisation.

Massimiliano Pierini, Managing Director of RX Italy, noted that the fair has been evolving for six decades, adapting continuously to market changes and supporting industry transitions in both energy and environmental terms.

Looking Ahead: 2027 and 2028
With the 44th edition now concluded, attention turns to future events. Heat Pump Technologies will hold its second edition in April 2027, followed by the 45th edition of MCE, scheduled from 7 to 10 March 2028. Organisers have indicated that the development of the 2028 format is already under way, with plans to expand the MCE Lab information platform and engage trade associations, research institutes, and academic institutions in the lead-up to the next edition.

The international dimension of the fair is set to remain a strategic priority, with a continued focus on markets spanning the Middle East, the Far East, Europe, and the Americas.

This edition is already looking ahead to the next event, which will take place from March 7 to 10, 2028.