Minister of Industry and Commerce Dr. Hassan Fakhro, who opened the 24th Autumn Fair at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), said that it was not appropriate to give a timeframe for the completion of the Expo City Project. However, he added, the work on the project have already been initiated and have full backing of the leadership.
The Minister confirmed the importance of trade fairs in rehabilitation the commercial sector and promotes prices competition. In addition, it motivates businesses to provide better and various consumer goods in high quality and competitive prices.
Dr. Fakhro also confirmed ministry’s support to Autumn fair, as one of the most important trade fairs enjoyed by citizens and visitors, pointing out that the ministry is looking forward for greater involvement of international trades and also allow Bahraini traders to participate to add value to the Kingdom in exhibition industry sector, especially this sector attracts large number of people.
Over 700 exhibitors from 20 countries are participating in the fair, where the minister reiterated his emphasis on the importance of such exhibitions and events in revitalizing market movement and supporting the national economy. In addition to its role in attracting international investment and enhance its economic status of the Kingdom of Bahrain as the location for organizing special exhibitions and conferences.
Autumn fair is in an estimated area of 14800 square meters and includes a wide range of products such as, furniture, clothes, food, cosmetics, carpets, perfumes, electrical goods, handicrafts, toys, novelties and much more. In addition to the participant of craftsmen and productive families of Bahrain that are supported by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce.
The autumn fair, which continues until the 31st of January 2013, is expected to attract large number of shoppers and exhibitors.
The event is being held under the patronage of Dr. Hassan A. Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce and Chairman of Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Authority.
A huge variety of goods will go on sale during the nine day period, ranging from specialty food, fashion and furniture; to technology, toys, textiles and much more.
“The Autumn Fair is a hugely popular annual event in Bahrain’s calendar with a unique atmosphere. Now in its 24th successful year, the whole of the exhibition centre is transformed into a colourful bazaar by traders who have travelled from far and wide to Bahrain, bringing with them their country’s best exports. The largest international groups assemble to form national pavilions and include countries such as China, Egypt, Kuwait, Turkey, Syria, UAE and Pakistan,” Arabian Exhibition Management’s project manager Mohammed Ebrahim, said.
“With so many exhibitors, prices at the Autumn Fair can be competitive. There are potential bargains on new to market products and a host of regular visitor favourites. There is also a strong business to business element. The Autumn Fair acts as an important sourcing venue for local companies, and wholesale agreements and new partnerships will be established during the course of the exhibition. Numerous local businesses also regularly take part in the exhibition and many offer special deals to visitors,” he continued.
Opening hours at the Autumn Fair 2013 have been extended, allowing visitors more time to shop and browse in comfort. The exhibition will open daily to the public from 12 pm – 10 pm on 23 January, 10 am – 10 pm on 24 January, 12 pm to 10 pm on 25 January, 10 am – 2 pm and 4 pm – 10 pm on 26, 27, 28 and 29 January, and from 10 am to 10 pm on 30 and 31 January. Special ladies only mornings will take place on 27 and 28 January. Entry is 700 fils and children under 5 years old will be admitted free of charge.