Asia Fruit Logistica 2009 opening

Major fresh produce supplying countries and trading nations from across the world have expanded their presence at ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA, the international trade fair for fresh fruit and vegetable marketing in Asia, which opened its doors in Hong Kong today.

Well over 1,000 international trade visitors poured into Hong Kong’s Convention and Exhibition Centre for the opening day of ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA, which is taking place on 2-4 September alongside the Asiafruit Congress. They were able to see some 224 companies from 31 different countries exhibiting a wide range of products and services.

Asian countries once again account for the largest number of exhibitors on a regional basis, making up 35 per cent of the total. China has a particularly strong presence with some 55 companies exhibiting. Countries from Europe, South America, Oceania, North America and Africa are also well represented.

While Australia, the Netherlands, France and the US have all beefed up their presence at this year’s show, major South American supplying nations such as Chile and Brazil are exhibiting for the first time. Peru and Argentina are also making another strong showing while South Africa is back in force.

"Major exporting countries are moving in on Asia and making this event the fulcrum of their marketing push in the region," noted Gérald Lamusse of event organiser Global Produce Events.

Many of Asia’s fruit and vegetable markets have responded positively to the global economic crisis over the past 12 months as a desire among consumers to rein in their spending on eating out has prompted demand for fresh produce to remain steady or, in some cases, increase.

That was one of the key takeaways for delegates to the opening morning of the Asiafruit Congress today, which attracted some 500 delegates from 43 different countries.