In March 2013 TEFAF announced that it had entered into exclusive discussions with Sotheby’s to explore the possibility of developing a high-end art fair in China via Sotheby’s Joint Venture in Beijing with GeHua. Over the past few months TEFAF, with Sotheby’s assistance, was able to develop a detailed proposal for exhibitors to consider, which had the support and co-operation of the Chinese authorities and fulfilled all the local requirements.

Although the art market in China is growing rapidly and there is considerable belief in its potential, the feedback from many dealers indicates that the majority feels that exhibiting in mainland China is something that they would consider at a later date. While the interest in and the appetite for Western art is undoubtedly growing, there is a belief that the market for many of the specialisations represented at Maastricht is still evolving.

The Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees of TEFAF Maastricht have therefore reluctantly concluded that a high-end art fair, as presently envisaged, in Beijing is not viable at the current time.