This year’s International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Asian Attractions Expo (AAE) will take place in Beijing, a move organisers say was prompted by the industry’s rapid expansion in China.

Although IAAPA’s Asia Pacific office is located in Hong Kong, this will be the first expo to be held in mainland China. The Chinese government has also got behind the event, with the Chinese Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (CAAPA), a national body under the purview of the Ministry of Culture, acting as one of the sponsors.

“Taking Asian Attractions Expo 2014 to Beijing is recognition of the growth of the attraction industry in China,” an IAAPA spokesperson told Attractions Management. “It further opens the market to potential investors and allows Chinese manufacturers an opportunity to showcase their products to buyers from around the world.”

“Whenever Asian Attractions Expo takes place in a new city it is an opportunity to expand the reach of IAAPA and attract new attendees and potentially new IAAPA members.”

The expo, which was first held in 1997 and rotates to a different city throughout Asia each year, expects to attract more than 5,000 attractions industry professionals from more than 60 nations to the Beijing event.

This year’s event runs at the China National Convention Center (CNCC) in Beijing from 17-20 June, with suppliers eager to make their mark in the lucrative Chinese market.

The trade show floor will showcase products from more than 275 companies from around the world in more than 100 categories, including amusement and theme park rides; architectural and design services; and coin-operated games, skill games, and redemption prizes.

In addition to the buying and selling of goods and services, participants will be able to learn about new developments, trends and best practices in the attractions industry, as well as enjoy networking with other industry professionals.

“Beijing’s experience as host to the 2008 Olympic Games, its area tourist attractions, and its history and diverse culture make it a perfect backdrop for Asian Attractions Expo, the attractions industry’s fastest growing trade show and conference in the region,” said IAAPA president and CEO Paul Noland.