The Solana team postponed the Solana Accelerate China event in Shanghai shortly before it was scheduled to begin. Participants received a notification citing logistical reasons for the delay, though reports indicate that police were present at the venue.
Prior to the event, Solana executives had promoted the project's presence in Shanghai, including the opening of an office with views of the Huangpu River and outdoor digital advertising. Solana Foundation product director Vibhu Norby described the location as the highest commercially available office space in the world.
The activity occurs despite a ban on cryptocurrency-related business and mining in mainland China that has been in effect since 2021. Industry observers noted that promoting crypto assets remains a taboo, while discussions focused on technology are generally considered less risky.
Binance founder Changpeng Zhao expressed surprise at Solana's ability to secure office space and advertising in China, noting that BNB Chain has not been able to achieve similar results. Solana's tour schedule includes planned events in Hangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beijing through the end of October.
