TAIPEI: The 2009 Taipei Computer Applications Show, the best known computer exhibition aimed at Taiwan's domestic market, is expected to rake in big profits, despite the weak economy, organizers said yesterday. Statistics show 80 percent of visitors will buy something at the show, Enoch Du, secretary-general of the Taipei Computer Association (TCA), a co-organizer of the show, said at a pre-show news conference.

Among expected buyers, 75 percent are aiming for hardware such as notebook computers and digital cameras, Du said.

With an average spending of NT$19,300 ($588) from each buyer, Du said he expected the show to maintain last year's pace of 570,000 visitors and NT$8.8 billion in revenues.

Jointly organized by TCA and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), the annual exhibition, now in its 19th year, will take place at the Taipei World Trade Center's Exhibition Hall from July 31 - Aug 3 with free admission.

More than 175 exhibitors will operate some 1,250 booths to display a wide range of computer and peripheral products that use the most cutting-edge technologies.

Moses Yen, executive director of TAITRA's Exhibition Department, said at the press conference that this year, all the most upscale and advanced products will no longer be unattainable or too pricey.

"This year's show will satisfy the needs of every consumer, as we have invited every world-leading brand to bring with them the most up-to-date products. Also, the prices are very competitive with all kinds of installments available," Yen said.

The exhibition, which opens on July 31, will serve as the benchmark for the latest trends in the 3C industry and a gauge of the industry's prospects, Yen added.

China Daily/CNA

(HK Edition 07/23/2009 page2)