Fighting for market share amid crisis
Exhibitors at Middle East’s biggest garments, textiles, leather and fashion accessories trade show seek new markets in global downturn
The Middle East's largest exhibition of garments, textiles, leather and fashion accessories opened its doors today (Tuesday 7 April 2009) against the background of a global economic turndown in which international industry players attempt to seek new markets.
More than 200 exhibitors from over 20 countries have come to the United Arab Emirates to take part in Motexha which runs until Thursday (9 April 2009) at the Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre.
Motexha was officially opened by HH Sheikh Hasher Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Director General, Dubai Department of Information, who later toured the show and talked with exhibitors.
Chinese companies have turned out in force for this year's Motexha with more exhibitors than any other country as the textiles powerhouse feels the impact of an export slowdown.
“Even in the global economic crisis we must defend our market,” said Chen Ling, Lianyungang Feiyan Blankets Company of Jiangsu province. “We are here to seek more co-operation in the Middle East and keep our name in the market,” she added.
Ann Hung, General Manager of Golden Source, a swimwear manufacturer from Hong Kong with manufacturing bases in mainland China, said: “Our markets in the United States and Europe have been badly affected by the financial crisis and we are here at Motexha to find new markets and opportunities in the Middle East.”
Thailand, with 50 companies participating, has its biggest representation ever at Motexha. Handbags and shoes manufacturer Phen Siam from Bangkok said it had seen export markets shrink by about 30% in recent months with sales to the USA particularly badly hit. “We are looking for opportunities in the Middle East here at Motexha in the hope of offsetting the decline elsewhere,” said company president Pacharaprapa Worrapisutsophon.
Meanwhile Italy has mounted its largest participation at Motexha in at least six years, according to organisers IIR Middle East, and is relying on a reputation for quality and design to see it through the slowdown.
“Most of our market is okay as we sell mainly to medium to high level customers,” said Italian fashion designer Tiziana Sidoti. “We believe our craftsmanship is highly appreciated by people in the Middle East and particularly here in the United Arab Emirates,” she added.
“Suppliers worldwide are competing for a slice of a Middle East market,” said Jim Meltz, Motexha show manager. “The need for companies to maintain a market profile even in slower times is well illustrated at this year's show. Hopefully, they will achieve some success as we have also received record levels of advance visitor registrations, many from the well known retail brands present in the region's malls.”
Other countries participating at Motexha 2009 include: the United Arab Emirates, Canada, Portugal, Ecuador, Qatar, USA, Germany, Brazil, Philippines, Australia, Poland, Russia, Vietnam, Taiwan, South Africa, Belgium, Malaysia, Croatia and South Korea.
A new addition for 2009 is the Lingerie and Swimwear Zone which aims to introduce major brands to the Middle East market, a leading importer from Europe.
For more information log on to www.motexhaonline.com
