9th Beijing International Audiology Conference

Zhao Hang, PhD, Lecturer and Engineer, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai.
Organised by the Beijing Society of Audiology, the conference was successfully held at the China National Convention Center. Nearly 1000 distinguished audiology experts and industry specialists from both China and overseas gathered for this significant occasion.

The conference featured 39 academic presentations distributed across keynote speech, round-table forums, expert workshops, case-study seminars and thematic debate. Dr Li Wei, a keynote speaker, noted, “The synergy between gene therapy and brain-computer interfaces marks a new era for hearing rehabilitation.”

Professor Yilai Shu of Fudan University shared groundbreaking insights on gene therapy for hearing loss. 
"Our latest clinical trials demonstrate that targeted gene editing can restore partial hearing in genetic deafness models," he stated. "This marks a paradigm shift from traditional amplification to biological restoration." His work underscores China’s leading role in next-generation auditory therapeutics.



Furthermore, the conference highlighted new guidelines and national policies, including an updated National Standard for Hearing Aid Fitting Management, the latest China Hearing Health Report and Clinical Guidelines for Pediatric Hearing Aid Fitting.

A particularly noteworthy session involved a practical workshop on custom earmolds tailored specifically for Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) hearing aids. Another engaging academic panel titled ‘New Toolbox for Hearing Care Professionals’ stimulated in-depth dialogue regarding interdisciplinary opportunities for audiologists amid rapidly evolving technological trends.

Coinciding with the conference was an industry exhibition named ‘New Technology, New Products, New Services’. It was open for public attendance and drew significant interest from 33 companies and organisations from China and abroad. The exhibition showcased a broad spectrum of pioneering products, from specialised hearing solutions – such as AI hearing aids and cochlear implants – to innovative audiological assessment devices, smart wearable assistive technology and various accessories. Advanced chip technologies and rehabilitation educational platforms were also featured, clearly illustrating the sector's innovation trajectory and market trends.

Guided by China's ‘Healthy China 2030’ vision, the audiology field is experiencing significant growth. Technological innovations closely match consumer demands and strengthened cooperation between domestic enterprises and global entities is creating a dynamic and inclusive audiological healthcare ecosystem.