The second edition of MATECH CHINA, held in Dongguan, China, on 2-4 April 2003, was deemed a business success for exhibitors and visitors alike. Despite the unsettled situation prevailing at the time, the level of commitment to closing business negotiations was very high.
Clearly, China’s buoyant leather sector, which continued to enjoy growth in 2002, is still recognised as having more market potential, while China’s leather industry personnel identify MATECH CHINA as the venue to assess the best that international suppliers can offer.
130 companies from 11 countries and regions including Bangladesh, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Taiwan and the USA exhibited at MATECH CHINA. Over one third (36%) showed raw materials while just under a third (31%) showed shoe and leathermaking machinery. Component manufacturers accounted for 13% and man-made leather substitute materials 6%.
Exhibitors were very pleased with the high quality of the buyers and Karim Leather was among the many who received large orders. Many exhibitors reported an outstanding show.
2,745 buyers visited the fair and the overwhelming number came from Guangdong province of China. Dongguan accounted for 42%, Guangzhou (31%), Shenzhen (11%), Nanhai (4%), Zhongshan, Shunde and Foshan – 2% each. There were, additionally, visitors from Hong Kong, Taiwan, USA, Japan, Korea, Italy, UK, Indonesia, Malaysia and Türkiye.
The response from buyers has been positive. Many buyers found several new suppliers and placed large orders on the spot.
The next edition of MATECH CHINA will be held on 24-26 March 2004 at the same venue, Guangdong Modern International Exhibition Center, Dongguan, China.
