Dr. Rashid Ahmad bin Fahad opens 'Dubai International Wood and Wood Machinery Show 2009'

Strategic Marketing & Exhibitions (SME), organiser of the show, has announced that over 200 leading players from 26 countries are set to showcase the latest technologies and innovation in wood and wood processing at the event. The fourth edition of the show is expected to attract 7,000 trade visitors within its three-day run.

Speaking at the event, H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmad bin Fahad said:

"The UAE is an open market for the wood sector, which has grown to become an important driver of this country's economy. In line with this, the Ministry is supporting and encouraging local trade and manufacturing of wood products to address the need of the market. I am happy to learn that the show has witnessed growth from last year's edition, and I am optimistic of the positive effect this will have on the local industry."

A review of last year's visitor profile revealed that the show has made a strong impact among regional players, with 73% of the 5,000 attendees coming from the Mena region, and the rest from Europe, South America, Africa, Asia and North America. As a testament to the show's potential in providing a global platform for organisations with various businesses in the wood and woodworking sector, 33% of the visitors to last year's event have identified the opportunities to acquire high quality products and services within the event.

In addition, 31% of the participants have come to the show with high expectations to meet new contacts and expand their existing network, while 21% were attracted to the showcase of new technological innovations.

The organizers also revealed that 13% of the attendees were drawn in by the chance to test products and benefit from the promotional pricing at the event, and the remaining 2% came to acquire new industry facts and information.

"Following the excellent visitor turnout we have seen last year, we are delighted to have surpassed our previous record by 30 per cent with this edition of 'Dubai International Wood and Wood Machinery Show 2009'. We are witnessing a stronger participation from both global and local exhibitors, which underlines the importance of this show among established and new players from across the globe. We wish everyone a fruitful participation and success," concluded Dawood Al Shezawi, Managing Director, SME.

Witnessing extensive participation from international companies from Australia, Canada, Chile, Germany, Malaysia, Portugal, UK, and the US, 'Dubai International Wood and Wood Machinery Show 2009' has welcomed global organisations including the American Hardwood Export Council, Quebec Wood Export Bureau, ACIMALL, AFEMMA and Malaysian Timber Council.

In addition, top UAE-based companies are also present at the event, such as Arab Technical Equipment LLC, Al Sayes Factories Equipment & Machinery Trading LLC and Agopian International Trading LLC. Local organisations who have signed up as the event's trade supporters and sponsors are UAE Contractors' Association, Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI), and the Association of Professional Interior Designers (APID).