Fewer exhibitors as trade fair shifts to Ta' Qali

The 51st International Fair of Malta is about to be held at the Malta Fairs and Convention Centre in Ta' Qali for the first time ever, attracting some 200 exhibitors to display their products in what has been described as a "village" concept.

The number of exhibitors is less than the 250 at last year's event, which took place at the trade fair grounds in Naxxar - as in the last 50 editions.

Still, the organisers are pleased with the turnout, saying scepticism was probably the reason for "marginally" fewer exhibitors. It was a matter of the typical resistance to change and would blow over by next year, they maintained.

It was likely that people, at some point, would automatically drive to Naxxar, being so used to it, the organisers added.

The fair is an annual outing for many Maltese. Normally, around 120,000 attend; the organisers are expecting some 10,000 a day for the 10-day period of the fair. Surveys had shown, they said, that 10 days were more than enough, as long as the period included two weekends.

Meanwhile, works are underway at the MFCC, where the village concept is being created, with every stand having equal exposure.

The area being what it is, there is an element of flexibility and no structural restrictions as in the previous venue, explained MFCC business development director Rueben Caruana.

The layout was a challenge, he said, adding that previous editions were being improved upon, including, for example, entertainment for children and three restaurants to cope with the demand.

Traffic arrangements have been made by the police and a ring-road system organised to avoid inconvenience. Areas of the national park have been illuminated, while parking space, which is free, is ample, and access easy due to two entrances, MFCC chairman Paul Abela stressed.

Police Superintendent Ray Zammit said large signposts were being put up at every corner to avoid any confusion, while traffic police would be positioned on site and a bus terminus (number 150) was positioned in front of the national stadium.

The international aspect of the fair lay in the fact that the products were foreign, but as such, four countries were participating - Libya, China, Italy and India.

Apart from the various products, the Kunsill Malti għall-Isports also has a stand, as well as government departments.

The fair opens on Friday and carries on until Sunday, July 6. On weekdays, except for Friday, it is open from 6 to 10.30 p.m., and until 11 p.m. on the Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Entrance costs €1, with a reduced price for senior citizens.