Two models pose for photo showing off netbooks during the Computex fair in Taipei yesterday. CNA

TAIPEI: The surprising strength of Computex Taipei 2009 is serving as a benchmark of global economic recovery, as well as a platform showcasing Taiwan's global competitiveness, the executive vice president of the semi-official Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) said yesterday.

"Under the current global economic challenges, this year's Computex Taipei provides an opportunity to test the temperature of the global economy and serve as an indicator for its recovery," said TAITRA's Walter Yeh.

Noting that the number of visitors to Computex Taipei 2009 on opening day grew 1 percent (to 7,900) compared to the previous year, Yeh described the increase as "very positive and inspiring" and of great importance given the global economic dislocations that have occurred.

Computex Taipei - Asia's biggest IT exhibition and the world's leading ICT procurement platform is expected to attract 35,000 international buyers and generate $20 billion in business by the time it closes June 6.

In addition to Computex Taipei, Yeh said Taiwan has many other information and communication technology (ICT) trade shows with great potential and competitive advantages in the international arena.

They include the upcoming Display Taiwan, scheduled for June 10-12, Photovoltaic Taiwan 2009 from October 7-9, TAITRONICS 2009 and the Taiwan International RFID Application Show from October 8-11, and Broadband Taiwan 2009 from October 26-28.

This is why the TAITRA held an international news conference yesterday along with industry association representatives to promote the "five stars" of Taiwan's ICT sector to the world, he added.

"The recipe for success for Taiwan's trade shows over the years is the fact that TAITRA and industry associations work closely together," Yeh said.

China Daily/CNA

(HK Edition 06/04/2009 page2)