Brisk trade fair in economic downturn 
By Daisy Chan

 

Traders are looking for business!	Visitors in the exhibition hall.

The Sixth Macao International Trade & Investment Fair (MIF) was held at the Macao International Trade City from October 24 to 28, aiming to promote  local products and attract project investments. It has become the largest business exhibition and an important event in Macao. 

The Macao Trade and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM) first organized the MIF in 1996. Participants and visitors to this year's MIF have increased. Altogether, there were 1,000 exhibitors participating in the event, which included a book fair and auto fair as well as 700 booths showing the latest development and products in local and regional technology, manufacturing and service industries. 

Information Technology (IT) is the main theme of this year's comprehensive exhibition. The number of exhibitors tripled this year to 200. Participants came from more than 30 countries and regions, including the Mainland, Taiwan, the United States, Europe and Australia. Many products such as IT products and related books, environmental friendly food products, garments, and technological innovations were available on display. 

Several seminars and conferences were open to the public. Conference venues were equipped to offer interpretations in English, Portuguese or Chinese. Adolph Chan, representative of Pico Hong Kong Ltd., said, "MIF has a strong database that interested parties can use to find potential business partners. It will also bring traders and customers together." This kind of matchmaking service was successful in the past. Last year out of the 220 participating companies, about 91 companies were able to make business contacts leading to further negotiations. 

Wang Guo Lin, manager of Sinotrans Jiangsu Imp. & Exp. Co. Ltd, said, "We expect the potential buyers will be among attendees so we hope more business opportunities are brought to us. This year Macao is enjoying a closer relationship with Mainland China. We have confidence in this event. The tragedy of 9/11 affected the world economy but here we still have a very large market in China, which is growing significantly over the years. I believe that smart people can turn a bad time into a good time."