Premiere in Shanghai

Around 80 companies from 12 countries have announced their intention to exhibit at the premiere of Practical World Asia from 27 to 29 September 2003. Among the exhibitors will be Obi, the German DIY retail group that currently has six outlets in China. The event is a cooperative project between Koelnmesse and the China National Hardware Association (CNHA) and is being held in parallel to the China International Hardware Show (CIHS), which was established in 1991. Approximately 900 exhibitors and 30 000 visitors are expected at the two events. Beginning in 2004, Koelnmesse will also become the co-organiser of the CIHS.