Trade Fair 2002 kicks off today amid high expectations

The 2002 edition of the International Fair of Malta kicks off today amid expectations of catalysing consumer spending. This will be the 45th edition of the Fair and will feature 334 exhibitors covering a wide range of products and markets. 66 new exhibitors will be presenting their products this year - proof that the Trade Fair is enjoying steady popularity, both with the general public as well as with prospective exhibitors themselves.

"This year’s Trade Fair will present itself during a period when all those involved in the commercial sector are feeling that the constant challenge of competition is pressing on them, even whilst they emerge from the difficult times produced through the 11 September disaster," commented Parliamentary Secretary for Economic Services, Edwin Vassallo whilst speaking to The Malta Financial & Business Times. "Sales at this commercial fair should prove that, once the global scene is relatively stable, consumers will be prepared to spend money if the best conditions are offered. From previous fairs we have seen that exhibitors who offer reduced prices and optimum benefits enjoy the mot success."

He said that the local situation is similar to those countries wherein the economy depends on a free market. "Malta is no exception although it seems as if the market is recuperating and with this in mind exhibitors are surely preparing themselves for this fair with the intent of improving on last year’s commercial performance."

However, this year the Fair is running over a period of 12 days as opposed to the somewhat traditional 15 days of the past. This reduction in the fair’s length materialised following a questionnaire, which was handed out to all exhibitors last year. The results proved that exhibitors felt the fair was too long and that it should be altered likewise.

Nonetheless activity will be as hectic as usual. The Environment, Agriculture and Health ministries will have their usual informative stands as will the Malta Crafts Council, the Malta-EU Information Centre, Bank of Valletta and HSBC.

In 2001, 145,000 visitors travelled to Naxxar for the International Fair of Malta and this proves that this commercial activity is ever popular. This year it opens its doors between 26 June and 7 July. Opening hours will be as follows: Monday to Thursday 18.00 hrs – 22.30 hrs; Friday to Sunday 18.00 hrs to 23.00 hrs.