The 2010 Taiwan Culinary Exhibition opened at the Taipei World Trade Center Friday and showcased 'New Taiwan cuisine, ' described as the fusion of eight regional Chinese cuisines, as well western and Japanese dishes. Addressing the opening ceremony, Minister of Transportation and Communications Mao Chi-kuo touted Taiwan's dishes as 'traditional, creative and environmentally conscientious.' He said the exhibition is held to introduce Taiwan cuisine to the world in the hope that people in other countries can experience Taiwan's 'unique culinary culture.' The exhibition, which runs through Aug. 30, drew crowds of visitors, many of whom seemed keen to purchase meal coupons offered by popular hotels around the island, including the Grand Formosa Regent Taipei. In addition to local and exotic dishes, celebrity chefs have also been invited to the show to demonstrate how to prepare certain dishes. 