The largest gathering of international food, wine and hospitality suppliers ever to come to China begins today in Shanghai, featuring a record 800 companies from 35 countries and regions.

Ninety-eight percent of all exhibiting companies at FHC China 2007, held at the Shanghai New International Expo Center until November 16, are international companies or agents representing international companies.

The reason for this is simple, explained Brendan O'Connell Jennings, general manager of China International Exhibitions, the event's organizer: "FHC China offers a platform or shop window for international companies to present their products to the top end of the Chinese retail and hospitality market".

Exhibits this year include a variety of food, beverage and hospitality products. National food specialties and international brands can also be sampled from countries as varied as Belgium, South Korea, Thailand and Argentina.

Spain, currently celebrating the "Year of Spain in China", presents the largest pavilion ever to attend a trade fair in Asia with more than 140 exhibitors.

Alongside the trade show are a series of professional seminars covering subjects such as changes in food import regulations, food safety and nutrition.

A full listing of exhibitors at FHC China 2007 and their products may be viewed in the Advance Buyers' Guide on the show website, www.fhcchina.com. The site also includes a current program of seminars, competitions and events. Advance registration is recommended.

(China Daily November 14, 2007)