Solana has postponed its Shanghai event due to police presence, raising concerns about cryptocurrency promotion in China.
Solana has announced the postponement of its Solana Accelerate China event in Shanghai, following reports of police presence at the venue. The announcement was made shortly before the event was set to begin, with organizers citing "logistical reasons" in a message sent to participants.
Screenshots of the communication circulated on social media, revealing the abrupt decision. The situation was further complicated by the presence of Chinese law enforcement at the location, as reported by multiple sources.
Prior to the postponement, Solana executives showcased the company's commitment to Shanghai, highlighting their high-profile office space and digital advertising in the area. Vibhu Norbi, the Product Director of the Solana Foundation, shared a video on X showing their office overlooking the Huangpu River, claiming it to be the "highest commercially available office space in the world."
In Shanghai, Solana occupies the highest commercially available office space in the world 😱
— vibhu (@vibhu) October 14, 2026
Additionally, Lily Liu, President of the Solana Foundation, posted images of their digital advertisements on the Citigroup Tower, and footage from an event on a riverboat attended by co-founder Anatoly Yakovenko was also shared online.
Solana comes to Shanghai
Accelerate China
— Lily Liu (@calilyliu) October 14, 2026
This active promotion appears striking against the backdrop of a ban on cryptocurrency-related business and mining in mainland China that has been in place since 2021. Blockchain consultant Andy Lian noted that while promoting cryptocurrencies is taboo, discussions around trends and technology are more permissible.
Promoting cryptocurrencies [in China] is taboo. Most discussions focus on trends, technologies, and opinions.
Binance founder Changpeng Zhao expressed surprise at Solana's ability to secure an office in China, a feat that has not yet been achieved by BNB Chain. He remarked that he hopes Solana's success paves the way for others in the industry.
It’s amazing to see that Solana was able to advertise and even get an office in China. Hopefully, what’s good for one industry player is also good for the rest.
— CZ 🔶 BNB (@cz_binance) October 15, 2026
Solana plans to hold additional events in Shanghai, Hangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beijing by the end of October. However, similar events in the past have faced abrupt cancellations due to local law enforcement interventions. In September 2026, China’s Ministry of State Security warned citizens about the risks associated with cryptocurrencies, labeling them as tools for money laundering and cyberattacks.
