Germany confirmed its status as the world's leading trade fair destination in 2024, attracting 2.46 million international visitors across 176 national and international events, according to the Association of the German Trade Fair Industry (AUMA). This represents 34% of all trade fair attendees, the highest global share.
© Rclassenlayouts | Dreamstime
Top visiting nations included the Netherlands (211,000), Italy (176,000), Austria (152,000), Switzerland (148,000), and China (120,000). Germany also led in exhibitor numbers, with 107,340 foreign companies participating. China topped the list with 20,630 exhibitors, followed by Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, and France.
Despite disruptions from over 50 strike-affected events in early 2024, Germany hosted a total of 322 trade fairs, drawing over 11.7 million visitors, a 3.2% rise. Exhibitor numbers grew by 9.2%, and exhibition space increased by 7.2%.
Looking ahead, over 310 trade fairs are planned for 2025, with new focuses on healthcare, energy, and construction. Trade fair venues aim to invest over €770 million by 2029 to enhance infrastructure, digitalisation, and sustainability.
AUMA Chair Philip Harting called on the German government for "less bureaucracy" and improved digital services, especially regarding visa processes, to maintain Germany's global leadership in trade fairs.
Source: www.moebelfertigung.com