Auto Parts Firms Flock To Frankfurt Fair

Automechanika, the six-day fair which began here on Tuesday, has a record number of 3,400 exhibitors from 62 countries, and expects a million-and-a-half visitors from 120 countries; it is the leading purchasing and information tool for the entire international automotive market and original equipment manufacturers sector.

An interesting feature of this years' participation is the professional approach and swank product display of the Indian contingent which comprises components and accessory units in the main.

Indian representative for Messe Frankfurt S Nagpal said: ``Such quality representation is what we are aiming at. We are very strict in selecting exhibitors...to assure buyers of quality and reliability.''

The Indian participation has been organised by Messe Frankfurt. Major associations from India include: the India Trade Promotion Organisation , the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association and the Engineering Export Promotion Council.

The last fair in 1994 saw 76 Indian companies renting around 4500 sq mts; this year 20 more companies have joined in the expo, renting twice as more space. The strong Indian presence comes on the back of tremendous export success of the Indian exhibitors in the past. The Indian industry has been witnessing major developments ever since the government decided to liberalise the sector. Now with the entry of global giants in the Indian auto sector, the automobile components industry has also been growing significantly.

This fact is clearly visible at the show, says Mrs Nagpal. ``Looking back a few years the Indian presence was not only minor but the quality of components at the show were not up to international standards. Today, with several major Indian market players competing on the platform of Automechanika, the scenario is quite different. Some exhibitors have achieved the ISO 9002 standards.''