The 27th edition of the International Spring Trade Fair, to be held at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre from May 5 to 10, will be 10 per cent larger than the last year's edition with 300 exhibitors from 20 countries, including 37 from the UAE, displaying consumer products at the annual fair.

Last year's edition had 271 exhibitors which was visited by 8,472 registered trade visitors and 21,500 general public and it generated $125 million worth of business in commercial contracts. Organisers said they expect 10,000 trade visitors and 25,000 general visitors in the current event.

"Like all previous editions, Spring Fair, one of the most popular general trade fairs in the region will prove to be a rewarding experience for both buyers and sellers," said Satish Khanna, general manager of Al Fajer Information and Services.

"This year, it is all set to live up to its tradition as a showcase for merchandise and an effective entry point for foreign companies into the regional market."

The exhibition is being spread over a gross area of 6,000 sq. m space, covering Hall No. 4 and 5A at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre.

It will also feature six national pavilions, including China represented by 108 companies, Indonesia with 27 companies, Korea having 23 companies, Pakistan with 17 participants, Malaysia having 19 exhibitors and Vietnam will have 5 participants.

They take up 65 per cent of the exhibition space in the event. Pakistan and Malaysia are coming for the first time as official groups.

The event will be open to the trade visitors in the morning and general public will be allowed in the evenings daily. "This year we are not going to charge entrance fee. It will be free," Khanna said.
Indonesia is going to have a sound presence at the event.

"Indonesia's bilateral trade with the UAE has been on an upswing over the past three years with Indonesian exports to the UAE growing from $747.9 million in 2000 to $766.9 million in 2001," said Djasdi Darwis, chairman of the newly reopened Indonesian Trade Development Centre in Dubai.