31st International Spring Trade Fair opens at Dubai International Exhibition and Conference Centre

ISTF 2006, which is one of the leading consumer goods exhibition, will run from April 5- 8, and is expected a\ to attract an increased number of trade visitors this year.

Commenting on ISTF 2006, Mr. Satish Khanna, General Manager of Al Fajer Information & Services, organisers of the fair, said:

"ISTF 2006 takes place in the context of the buoyant economic growth of the region which has enhanced business and trade opportunities. This year the fair has participation from over 10 countries across the world, apart from local companies keen to exploit the increase in demand for consumer goods in the region."

"We expect a bigger turnout of trade visitors from outside the UAE this year given the upbeat economic conditions prevailing in the Gulf region and its neighbouring economies. As one of the well established trade showcases with a reputation for providing one of the most rewarding business-to-business meeting grounds, ISTF 2006 is all set to more than live up to its tradition as a successful market penetration platform," Mr. Khanna said.

Compared to the last year's event, Spring Fair 2006 is also expected to post bigger trade volumes. Last year, the fair drew some 7,835 trade visitors and 20,000 general visitors. "This year, we expect these to cross 10,000 and 20,000 respectively, underscoring the region-wide appeal for the region's oldest general trade showcases," he said.

`Live In Splendour'- a renowned name in the field of exhibitions from India will be stepping into Dubai for the first time with an exciting and exhilarating exhibition of unique and stylish products from all over India with over 50 companies under the banner of Indian Compliments Exhibition. They will feature a wide array of most innovative and trendy consumer products ranging from apparels and bridal collection, artifacts, marble and handicrafts, jewellery, silverware and watches, pottery and glassware, crystal miracle, paintings and furnishing.

China will continue to make their presence with over 15 exhibitors followed by other countries like Australia, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, Malaysia, and Pakistan. A strong contingent of around 25 manufacturers and local traders are also taking part.

Chinese participation will be under the auspices of SINOBAL and this group is involved in Spring Fair participation for over a decade now and is regularly organizing groups in the Spring and Autumn Fairs. A total number of 15 companies are participating.

Spring Fair which has a proven track record as an effective meeting ground in the region facilitating the cementing of old or existing trade ties and the fostering of new business partnerships, will have on display a whole wide range of merchandise ranging from jewellery, clothing, electronics and foodstuff to kitchen wares, automobile accessories and tools.

Al Fajer will be mounting an extensive media campaign to promote the show in the Middle East with a view to attract more trade visitors this year. Also in the offing is a massive advertising blitz through the print and electronics media to cover the region including the Gulf, the Middle East, Iran, North Africa and the Indian sub-continent.