JIAM 2008 attracted global audience and industry leaders

JIAM 2008 saw a total of 11,982 international visitors this year. The proportion of international visitors has increased significantly from 15% to 93%, as compared to its last presentation in 2005. The event attracted close to 200 participants from 19 countries with approximately 1,130 booths.

Organized by the Japan Apparel Sewing Machinery Association (JASMA) and supported by Ministry of Economy Trade & Industry, Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Japan External Trade Association and Japan Chamber of Commerce & Industry, this year’s event is themed “The Gateway to Advancing Technology from JIAM to the World”. Leading manufacturers and suppliers internationally, including countries such as, Brazil, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, UK, USA, Vietnam and more were present at the exhibition.

Asia alone makes up more than 70% of the global production with countries such as China, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Vietnam, Cambodia and other newly industrialized countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia. These countries’ continued focus on apparel exports to the U.S. and Europe will inevitably increase the demand for value-added products that offer quality design and functionality, which also leads to the increase in demand for the latest apparel machinery.

JIAM also inaugurated the first ever Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Pavilion. The pavilion encourages the small and medium-sized Japanese businesses to exploit greater business opportunities in foreign markets.

The various country and association Pavilions featured industry leaders from European and ASEAN countries. Japan, which has the largest pavilion with 23 companies, is supported by Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). The German pavilion led by the German Garment and Leather Technology Association (VDMA), represented 11 participating companies.

The China pavilion comprised of 12 of China Sewing Machinery Association (CISMA)’s members and seven participating companies from Guangdong Sewing Equipment Chamber of Commerce.

Korea pavilion with 10 companies was represented by Korea Sewing Machinery Industrial Association (KOSMIA). Taiwan pavilion is strongly supported by Taipei Sewing Machine Association (TSMA) with 18 of their members participating in this year’s event. The Singapore Pavilion led by Sewing Machine Traders Association Singapore (SMTAS) with 7 participating companies. Companies from various industries, such as planning and design, cutting/spreading, sewing, embroidery, knitting and information technology also displayed their latest innovations at the exhibition.

JIAM presented an exclusive Theme Zone put together by the organizing committee to showcase new technologies and solutions to keep pace with tomorrow’s trends. With a focus on “Solutions for the Sustainable Businesses”, the Theme Zone focused on three thematic solutions namely Marketing, Technical and Environmental.

The three zones coved in-depth discussions by industry leaders on issues such as corporate-social responsibility and also showcased environmentally friendly case studies aimed at the most innovative and latest methods in preserving the environment.

Another highlight of JIAM 2008 was the International Symposium which featured guest speakers from the various powerhouses in the manufacturing and textile industry. This knowledge-rich and interactive discussion forum touched on important topics such as current and emerging industry matter and practical methodology.

“With our extensive showcase at the Theme Zones and International Symposium, both exhibitors and visitors will garner sound knowledge on technological changes and sustainable production methods that will enable them to address the pressing issues of global and regional environmental changes,” said Mr. Shogo Kondo, Chairman of JIAM Committee at the opening press conference.JASMA commented on the event, “We are very pleased with the overwhelming response for JIAM’s ninth presentation, particularly this being the first time the show is held outside Japan. JIAM is an excellent platform for international companies to come together and exchange knowledge, explore strategic partnerships and share topical industry news.”

For more information:
www.jiam2008.com.