The fifth edition of SPAPER, the International Exhibition of Machinery and Equipment for Pulp, Paper and Board, will take place from 16 to 18 February 2027 at Feria de Zaragoza, alongside the 28th edition of SMAGUA, the International Water, Irrigation and Environment Exhibition. Both events will coincide with the first edition of CITY.360, the Fair for Mayors and Public Administrations (17 and 18 February).
With four months to go, SMAGUA is maintaining a strong pace of bookings and has already reached 100% occupancy in halls 3, 4 and 5. This confirms business interest in taking part in one of the sector’s leading professional events. This momentum also benefits SPAPER, which is establishing itself as a meeting point for the pulp, paper and board industry in an attractive professional trade fair setting.
Strong business response, combined with demand for exhibition space, has led the organisers to consider opening hall 6 to accommodate companies that have expressed interest in joining the next edition.
This growth also comes with strong institutional backing. The participation of the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge, together with the River Basin Authorities and other managing bodies, reinforces SMAGUA’s technical dimension and its role as a driving force for the industry.
New sector structure to meet market needs
SMAGUA 2027 introduces a new structure based on nine main areas, designed to optimise the experience of visitors and professionals. It will be organised around water collection, transport and storage; water and wastewater treatment and reuse; instrumentation, analysis and automation; irrigation; the environment; the energy environment; engineering and service companies; other equipment and components; and associations, institutions and the technical press. This configuration reflects the show’s aim of adapting to changes in the market and encouraging more direct connections between visitors.
Young talent, a priority
True to its commitment to the future of the industry, SMAGUA 2027 will for the first time host the Talent Day on 18 February. Far from being a simple school visit to the exhibition grounds, this event is designed as a two-way bridge between young people and industry. Its main aim is not only to bring them closer to the water sector, but also to spark their interest in building a professional career in it, support their genuine entry into the labour market and help them drive and improve the sector’s future.
More internationalisation and business opportunities
The international dimension will once again be one of the main assets of this edition. SMAGUA 2027 will feature trade missions of buyers and prescribers from more than 26 countries, helping to open up new markets and create opportunities for participating companies.
This will be complemented by the Brokerage Event, organised in collaboration with CEOE Aragón, which will bring together professionals and companies in B2B meetings aimed at expanding contacts, identifying new partners and generating business opportunities. The programme will be rounded off with an extensive calendar of technical sessions, talks and presentations, led by the sector’s main associations and organisations.