The trade fair industry in Asia expanded strongly again in 2007. Net area sold by organisers in Asia grew by nearly 18% reaching a total of 13.2 million ㎡ according to the fourth edition of UFI’s annual report on the trade fair market in Asia.

The report shows that China remains the largest trade fair market by a substantial margin. Year on- year, net square metres sold in China grew by 21% outperforming the regional average of 14%. India was, however, Asia’s fastest – growing market in 2007, up 50% followed by South Korea which grew by 32%. Over 6.7 million ㎡ were sold in China in 2007 – accounting for 51% of the total across Asia. The second largest market, Japan, grew by just 1% last year with sales of 2.2 million ㎡ .

Revenues from trade fairs in Asia increased from US$2.57 billion in 2006 to US$3.25 billion in 2007 – an increase of 26.5%. China continued to extend its lead over other markets in 2007. Last year, trade fair revenues in China were nearly US$1.12 billion. This is a massive increase of 47% over the US$760 million recorded in 2006.

(Source: UFIIFO, July/August 2008)