SAITEX, AB7 adds to Gauteng GDP, offers valuable trade networking

"With 900 plus confirmed exhibitors from more than 40 countries, this year's trade expos are bigger than ever and together form one of the largest business opportunities events on the continent," says John Thomson, MD of Exhibition Management Services (EMS), organisers of the events.

"Judging by last year's attendance, we can expect more than 15 000 visitors from about 54 countries to attend the shows. With the volume of direct sales, downstream business deals and investments in sectors related to the ambit of the two shows, this R50million could increase tenfold. The spinoffs for the South African economy in general are also enhanced and will play a role across the subcontinent."

Both shows are said to have built up high profile reputations with businesses and governments around the world. A number of countries are sending official trade delegations to attend the shows, including Brazil, India, Indonesia, Jamaica, Malaysia, Mauritius, Russia, Singapore, the Sultanate of Oman, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Sri Lanka and Turkey. The delegations will also be setting up their own dedicated trade pavilions to promote trade with their countries.

Business-focused trade conferences

In addition to the two shows, there are business-focused trade conferences, workshops and presentations scheduled to take place during the shows.

1. DHL BRICS Africa Export Import Forum - BRICS country opportunity presentations - 16 and 17 July
   
2. Future of Trade Africa 2012 - 16 July
   
3. The 5th International Halaal Conference - Navigating the Halaal Economy - 16 July
   
4. Retailing Conference - 16 and 17 July
   
5. Export/Import workshops for beginners and experts - 15 to 17 July
   
6. SA National Bottled Water Conference - 16 to 18 July