AFTES International Congress is the major event for underground works in France, organized by the French Tunnelling and Underground Space Association. The 18th edition will take place from October 12 to 14, 2026, at Lille Grand Palais, under the theme "Facing challenges, underground solutions."

AFTES: the congress for tunnels and underground space

The congress brings together owners, engineering firms, architects, urban planners, companies, and suppliers, with an associated exhibition. The organizer expects 150 exhibitors, over 3,000 visitors, and participants from 30 countries. A training day on water management in underground works will take place the day before, on October 11.

The topics covered range from sustainable solutions to worker safety, including technical innovation and underground urban planning.

Lille Grand Palais: a venue in the heart of the city

Lille Grand Palais is a convention and exhibition center located near the city center and the Lille-Europe train station, making it an easily accessible destination from Paris.

Our workshops in France and our teams in Lyon and Paris handle manufacturing, delivery, and assembly. Access rules and setup schedules must be confirmed with the organizer.

Construction and infrastructure stands: our approach

At a technical congress, the stand must reflect the seriousness of a major projects player: scale models, project screens, meeting spaces for project owners. Our approach prioritizes the readability of references and the quality of welcome.

Check out our page industry and construction stand and our custom-made stands. We can also design more compact solutions for a congress.

Our references in the construction sector

• Bouygues Construction: Bouygues Construction stand at SIMI (sheet SIMI), a major project player, comparable in terms of visibility challenges.

• Bouygues Linkcity: Bouygues Linkcity stand at MIPIM (sheet MIPIM), a stand designed for business meetings.

Tips for exhibiting at the AFTES International Congress

• Showcase your projects: models, maps, and site visuals speak to a professional audience.

• Plan for meetings: owners come to exchange ideas, not just to visit.

• Anticipate the exhibition: the congress is triennial: prepare a reusable stand.

• Aim for the right moment: also participate in training and sessions to meet your targets.

Frequently asked questions about the AFTES International Congress

When should I start a stand project for AFTES?

Six to eight months before the opening. As the 2026 edition is close, we advise you to target the following one.

Where and when does the next edition take place?

At Lille Grand Palais, from October 12 to 14, 2026. Since the congress is triennial, the next edition will take place in 2029 (dates to be confirmed).

Can Expace build a stand in Lille?

Yes. We design and manufacture in France, then handle transport and assembly in Lille.

Launch your stand project for the AFTES International Congress. Also discover: Artibat, Intermat and all our exhibitions in France.