China prepares to welcome the World

1:18 AM Mon 16 Mar 2009 GMT

'The Chinese are becoming more enthusiastic about boating.' .

Bolstered by its successful Olympic Games last year, China is rolling out the red carpet for the 14th China International Boat Show, to be held at the Shanghai Exhibition Centre from April 16-19, 2009.

The China International Boat Show is the only boat show which has been recognized at the international level and certified by the following organizations:
. U.S. Department of Commerce - U.S. Commercial Service Trade Fair Certification for the only supported boat show in China.
. International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO) - The China International Boat Show is the only boat show in China recognized by the IFBSO, which has identified top quality boat shows and marine trade exhibitions in 27 countries on four continents.
. BPA Worldwide - the world's largest independent, not-for-profit organization to audit consumer and business media applying uniform standards around the world.
CIBS 2009 will present hundreds of boats on display, and several exhibition halls featuring thousands of products covering equipment, technology, supplies and services.

The venue is massive and hosts many thousands of displays. - ..

Positioned as "the annual meeting point for Asia" in the recreational marine sector, CIBS has grown into a platform and milestone event for the global industry.

CIBS 2008 set new records, with 365 exhibitors and close to 400 brands on display. The show provided a stage for manufacturers, agents, suppliers, services, clubs and organizations from 17 countries and regions, with France, Italy and Australia represented in large-scale national pavilions. In addition to boats and supplies on display, the show boasted a wide range of events and activities, such as public and academic seminars, a gala dinner, a charity regatta, cocktails and interactive activities.

Accessories, services and allied businesses are also present. - ..

China's growing upper and middle classes are showing increasing interest in new lifestyles, sports and nature. China has over 300,000 US-dollar millionaires and is expected to become the largest market for luxury goods worldwide by 2012. In 2008, 177 boats were shown, among them 90 luxury yachts. By putting so many "toys" on display, CIBS and its exhibitors generate and fulfill dreams, with the majority of boats shown sold onsite.

More at www.boatshowchina.com

by Jeni Bone

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