Asiafruit Congress Asia Fruit Logistica 2008

AFL and AFC drew record numbers

Global interest in Asia’s fresh fruit and vegetable market is contributing to the substantial growth recorded at this year’s ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA.

Asia’s only regional fresh produce trade fair, which took place in Hong Kong last week, recorded significant increases in both visitor and exhibitor numbers, climbing by over 20 per cent and 85 per cent respectively compared to last year’s launch event.

“Some 3,855 visitors from 57 countries worldwide attended ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA,” said Gérald Lamusse, managing director of organising company GPE Global Produce Events GmbH.

“Exhibitor numbers at the three-day event were also up sharply, climbing by 85 per cent to some 215 exhibitors from 33 different countries.”

Leading buyers from Asia’s major fresh fruit and vegetable markets again made up the clear majority of visitors to ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA, which took place on 10-12 September 2008 at HKCEC, Hong Kong’s leading convention and exhibition centre.

Some 82 per cent of them hold leading positions in their companies, while 90 per cent said they directly influenced company purchasing and procurement.

“This very high level of competence of visitors and their ability to do business was of crucial importance to exhibitors at ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA,” said Mr Lamusse.

ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA took place together in conjunction with the Asiafruit Congress, which attracted some 600 delegates from 40 different countries and addressed key issues such as Asian food retailing and China’s position as a consumer market and fresh produce supplier.

“The whole event has been well constructed, managed and attended by key businesses within Asia. It’s been very useful to have face-to-face meetings with existing suppliers and open a dialogue with suppliers who are looking to extend their business into this region,” said AFL and AFC delegate Johnathan Sutton, Category Technical Manager, Fresh Produce, Tesco (Thailand and Malaysia).

Next year’s ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA and Asiafruit Congress takes place on 2-4 September 2009 at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre in Hong Kong, China.

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