VIV Asia 2011, Asia largest technology showcase opened yesterday to welcome thousands of 'Feed to Meat' professionals from Asia and around the world during 9 to 11 March at BITEC in Bangkok, Thailand.
The show opened on a high note. Total exhibitors broke a record high with more than 700 exhibitors from 45 countries showcasing the latest livestock technology and business solutions to Asia's fast-growing livestock industries.
At the Opening ceremony of the 10th edition of VIV Asia, Rirksmai Sukhum, president of NCC Exhibition Organizer Co Ltd said in his welcome speech: "One of the most noticeable developments of in the Asian livestock industries over the past two decades has been the rapid industrialisation of livestock production. I believe that VIV Asian has grown in a similar fashion. From a humble beginning, VIV Asia 2011 has become the largest technology platform for the Asia-Pacific livestock industries, following the renowned 'Feed to Meat' concept."
10th edition
"When VIV Asia was first launched in 1993, one of the objectives was to introduce advanced animal production and processing technology to Asia. In its 10th edition, 20 years later, 'technology' remains and always will be the highlight of the show. In the current situation, technology and innovation form undoubtedly the key to success for the industry," added Gerard Leeuwenburgh, Director of international Exhibitions at VNU Exhibitions, the organiser of VIV events worldwide.
The fact that the number of visitors has increased by more than 20 per cent in 2011 clearly indicates that all eyes are looking at Asia as the region of growth. In not many years from now, it is very likely that Asia will be the main production base for global livestock products," concluded Mr Leeuwenburg.
Addressing the international audience at the VIV Asia 2011, Teera Wongsamut, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, said: "The Thia government realises the importance of technology, which has been a key success factor in transforming Thailand from backyard farming to industrialised farming, especially for the poultry industry where Thailand ranks among the Top-10 of chicken exporters."
However, in the age of globalisation, no country grows alone. The Minister added: Since this event is a gathering of countries worldwide, I would encourage all participants to explore the opportunities for collaboration between the public and private sector to bring the Asian livestock industries to the next level. We will grow stronger as a group," the Minister said.
Special themes
In addition to a variety of livestock technologies, VNU Exhibitions Europe and its partner NEO have launched two brand new technology zones to strengthen VIV Asia's 'Feed to Meat' concept. Firstly, is Feedtech-Crop TEch Asia 2011, focussing on milling equipment and organised in cooperation with Watt Publishing. Second involves a cooperation between VIV and Positive Action Publications' for Lab@VIV Asia 2011, focusing on technology and services for feed and food testing.
