Africa's Big Seven food and beverage expo (AB7) and the Southern African International Trade Exhibition (SAITEX) opening at Gallagher Convention Centre from 15-17 July 2012, will reportedly contribute over R50million to the Gauteng economy.
"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.
DHL BRICS Africa Export Import Forum - BRICS country opportunity presentations - 16 and 17 July
Future of Trade Africa 2012 - 16 July
The 5th International Halaal Conference - Navigating the Halaal Economy - 16 July
Retailing Conference - 16 and 17 July
Export/Import workshops for beginners and experts - 15 to 17 July
SA National Bottled Water Conference - 16 to 18 July