BIEMH 2026 kicks off in Bilbao with 1.503 exhibiting companies and a firm commitment to industrial transformation

 

The 33th edition of the BIEMH-International Machine Tool Biennial It has been officially inaugurated by the Lehendakari, Imanol Pradales, in the Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC). The event brings together 1.503 companies from 34 countries until Friday to boost economic activity and industrial employment through technological innovation.

 

A global technology showcase in the Basque Country

 

During the opening ceremony, the Lehendakari emphasized the strategic commitment of Gobierno Vasco to transform the region's industrial and technological fabric. Under the motto "CARPE BIEMH"The organization urges the sector to adopt a proactive stance in the face of current challenges. "We can experience this moment in two ways: by worrying about the threats, by putting on the brakes; or, as we have always done, by seizing all the opportunities the world offers us," it stated. Imanol Pradales during his intervention.

 

The event, which occupies all six pavilions of the fairgrounds, showcases more than 3.350 innovative products. The official delegation, comprised of representatives from various institutions, toured the facilities, visiting leading companies in advanced manufacturing and capital goods participating in this international event.

 

Key figures from the 33rd edition of BIEMH

 

The scale of this year's event is reflected in the high level of international participation and the density of technological solutions presented. Key data from the fair is summarized in the following table:

 

Concept	Detail / Figure
Exhibiting companies	1.503 companies
Countries represented	34 nations
Innovative products	More than
Occupied area	6 pavilions of the BEC
Organizing entities	AFM, AIMHE y Bilbao Exhibition Centre

 

Institutional and organizational support

 

The opening was attended by prominent figures from the economic and industrial sectors, such as Mikel Jauregi, Minister of Industry and President of the BEC; Amaia del CampoMayor of Barakaldo; José Pérez Berdud, President of AFM Cluster, and Jordi García BrustengaSecretary of State for Industry, among others.

 

The organization of the BIEMH 2026 It relies on a joint effort by the following entities:

 

• AFM, Machine Tool Manufacturers: Representing machine tool manufacturers.
• AIMHE, Machine Tools Importers: Bringing together importers in the sector.
• Bilbao Exhibition Centre: Venue and co-organizer of the event.
• Institutional Partners: Diputación Foral de Bizkaia y SPRI – Gobierno Vasco.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about BIEMH 2026

 

What is the main objective of this edition of the Biennial?

The goal is to showcase the industrial sector's ability to deliver a live technological spectacle, taking advantage of current market opportunities to transform the economic fabric and generate quality employment.

 

How many companies and countries are participating in the event?

This 33rd edition features a total of 1.503 exhibiting companies from 34 different countries.

 

Who are the organizers and institutional supporters of the competition?

The fair is organized by AFM, AIMHE and the BEC, with the support of Diputación Foral de Bizkaia and the Gobierno Vasco through SPRI.