Food exhibition promises to be bigger and tastier than ever
More than 110,000 visitors are expected at this year’s SIAL China, Asia’s largest food exhibition, to be held between May 16 and 18 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center.
“SIAL China is the fastest growing fair within our network,” said Nicolas Trentesaux, director of the food and wine business for the SIAL Network, which started in 1964 and now hosts seven international food exhibitions annually.
Last year, SIAL China received 101,134 visitors with the participation of more than 3,200 exhibitors — second only to the network's Paris exhibition.
This year, the fair will continue to focus on the quality of food and showcase more innovative products, Trentesaux said. Over 3,400 exhibitors from 70 countries are expected in the fair, which will occupy 13 halls at the Shanghai New International Expo Center.
“Chinese people are increasingly demanding: they ask for quality, transparency of production, as well as innovation,” he said. “Besides, Chinese consumers are curious about imported food, which provides great opportunities for foreign companies.”
They are also more adventurous when it comes to new cuisines.
According to a survey by the SIAL Network, 64 percent of Chinese respondents said they are willing to try new foods, higher than the global average.
Trentesaux added that Chinese consumers seem to favor sweeter food than people in many other places, so exhibitors of chocolate, candies, beverages and biscuits are prone to seal good deals at the fair.
Forums, seminars and food competitions will also be held during the three day event.