BPI, WIN, and key Asian industry experts confirmed for October event co-located with Music China

SHANGHAI, CHINA – IMX has announced the first wave of confirmed speakers for its fifth edition in Shanghai, taking place October 22-25, 2025 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre Hall N3, co-located with Music China. Professional attendance inquiries are now being accepted, offering participants scheduling access for 1-on-1 meetings with confirmed speakers.

Presented under the theme “2025 Connection” this year’s program positions IMX as the platform connecting global music industry experts with the Chinese market, focusing on technology innovation, copyright evolution, and emerging business models.

IMX 2025 Shanghai — First Wave Lineup

Chris Tams, Director of Member Services & International, British Phonographic Industry (BPI), leads the BPI’s support services for hundreds of independent labels and operates the “Music Export Growth Scheme” providing funding for international touring and overseas expansion. The BPI, in partnership with the UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT), will lead a British music delegation to IMX Shanghai following their “China Music Mission Webinar” collaboration with IMX.

Noemí Planas, CEO, Worldwide Independent Network (WIN), makes her first visit to China representing the global body that connects independent music associations from 37 countries and regions, encompassing thousands of independent labels and professionals. Planas has been named to the Billboard Independent Music Power List for two consecutive years.

Sridhar J Swaminathan, Secretary General, South India Music Companies Association (SIMCA) – With over 30 years of industry experience, Sridhar leads South India Digital Music Management (SIDMM) and has founded multiple media companies, providing practical frameworks for regional market digital transformation.

Brendan Gaffney, Head of Global Marketing Secretariat, Independent Music Coalition Japan (IMCJ) – A New York native with a Master’s in Global Music Business from Berklee Valencia, Brendan specializes in Japanese music internationalization and provides strategic support for global market entry into Japan.

Marty Ro, Vice President and Board Member, Korea Music Content Association (LIAK) – With experience spanning London’s Metropolis and Abbey Road studios to Sound Republica’s 180-country distribution network, Marty has produced over 1,000 albums and collaborated with top Asian artists including Jay Park and Wanna One.

Andy Griffin, Southeast Asia Music Industry Expert – With nearly 20 years in Asian markets and over 30 years of international experience, including management of multi-platinum band Placebo and tenure at Warner Music, Andy serves as a bridge between international expertise and regional development.

Jeffrey Chiang, Global Business Director, Fluxus Inc. and Board Member, Merlin – Representing Korea’s largest music technology distributor and award-winning label Fluxus, while serving on the board of Merlin, the global independent music licensing agency.

Bliz Nochi (UCBA) – Ethnotronic artist fusing traditional sounds with electronic music, performing at international venues including ADE and Scorpios Mykonos

Kaöb – Founder of the world’s largest organic sound sampling library, with field recording experience across 50+ countries

Bubble T – Founder of ZanegoZanego Music Festival, combining deep Techno with world folk elements

Marisa Lia – Artist bridging Organic House and EBM, performing at Fusion and ADE

Yukes (玉刻) – Sound experimenter combining guzheng with synthesizers and ethnomusicology research

RÖ – VACUUM sound artist exploring ambient music, Techno, and field recording

Additional speakers will be announced in subsequent waves.

About IMX

IMX is a leading industry platform dedicated to connecting the global music, technology, and business communities. Through its conference, exhibition, investment summits, and artist showcases, IMX fosters cross-border collaboration, drives innovation, and provides an essential gateway to the dynamic music markets across Asia.

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