For Immediate Release: May 10, 2007
DBEDT Release News 07-09

Honolulu--The Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) is seeking participation in the largest food and beverage show in Taiwan - Food Taipei 2007. The event runs from June 21 to 24 at the Taipei World Trade Center Exhibition Hall. A total of 585 exhibitors, utilizing 1,600 booths are expected.

"This is Asia's premier food industry show, with multiple business opportunities in a region that is continuously searching for fresh tastes and variations. It is an exceptional opportunity for Hawaii businesses to enter the Taiwan market," said DBEDT Director Theodore E. Liu. "Being part of the USA Pavilion at Food Taipei 2007 will give Hawaii food growers, processors and wholesalers an opportunity to reach 23 million residents—a population with one of the highest standards of living in Asia."

Last year's show attracted 50,000 visitors, resulting in 357 contracts to U.S. exhibitors. Among the most popular items were beverages, popcorn, snack foods, coffees and teas, and condiments.

The USA Pavilion is sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) www.fas.usda.gov and the Agricultural Trade Office (ATO), American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) www.ait.org.tw/en/agriculture/ato.

Hawaii participants are urged to call Richard Fassler at 808-587-2775 or email to rfassler@dbedt.hawaii.gov. For more information, visit the USA Pavilion website at www.usapavilion.com.tw.

For more information, contact:
Dave Young
Communications
Phone: (808) 587-1212
Email: dyoung@dbedt.hawaii.gov