Since the launch of the Pingyao International Photography Festival (PIP) in 2001 and the Pingyao International Film Festival (PYIFF) in 2017, the ancient city of Pingyao in Shanxi province has built its distinctive 'dual festivals' brand. Together, these events have become an important platform for cultural exchange between China and the world.

In 2024, the two events not only upheld the cultural heritage of the ancient city but also achieved breakthroughs in internationalization and professionalism, showcasing the cultural exchange and cooperation embodied in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Statistics reveal that the 2024 photography festival attracted 50,000 photographers from over 100 countries and regions. The film festival's official screening section boasted a global premiere rate of 43.9 percent, an Asian premiere rate of 75.6 percent, and a 100 percent mainland China premiere rate, serving as a window for global filmmakers to explore Chinese aesthetics.

The economic impact of cultural exchange was evident. During the 2024 PIP, Pingyao welcomed nearly 100,000 visitors, generating ticket revenue of 1.98 million yuan ($278,073). The PYIFF drew 150,000 visitors, marking a 16.74 percent year-on-year increase.

Industry collaboration was further deepened. The photography festival's "Pingyao Image Trade Fair" facilitated transactions worth 1.1 million yuan, while the film festival's more than 100 merchandise items exceeded 500,000 yuan in sales. This "culture + commerce" model has transformed Pingyao from a cultural showcase platform into an international art consumption destination.

On June 24, the 25th Pingyao International Photography Festival announced the start of global submissions, with the event scheduled for Sept 19. This year, a special AI-generated imagery exhibition is planned, signaling an exploration of the fusion between traditional imagery and technology.