The Malta Trade Fair will be held between June 26 and July 6, the MFCC said.

The decision was taken after consultations with exhibitors. The MFCC management had previously announced other dates in July to avoid clashing with the World Cup.

"After listening to the feedback from stakeholders it became evident that this idea was not in the best interest of the exhibitors and the visitors," MFCC said.

The exhibitors told the organisers that although the World Cup was important, it never stopped consumers who needed to purchase goods from going to the fair.

The exhibitors argued that holding the fair later would clash with consumers' holiday plans.

Facilities will be provided for those who wish to follow the matches.