Mr. Berlemann, Messe Düsseldorf is active worldwide. Why are you now launching a new initiative specifically in Asia?
Marius Berlemann: Asia is a significant driver of global growth and already accounts for about one-third of the world's economy. This importance will continue to increase in the coming years. With our five subsidiaries in India, the ASEAN region, China, and Japan, as well as more than 50 trade fairs in the region, we are well-prepared to capitalize on this dynamic. At MEDICAL FAIR ASIA 2024 in Singapore, we introduced our new "Messe Düsseldorf for Asia" network and were able to showcase some of our initial progress.
What specific progress have you achieved so far?
Marius Berlemann: With MEDICARE ASIA, we have created a comprehensive platform to meet the growing demand for medical technology and rehabilitation solutions in Asia. This initiative brings together our seven Asian healthcare trade fairs under one strong umbrella. From our base in Singapore, we will progressively coordinate all key activities – from exhibitor acquisition and marketing to trade show content – tailored precisely to the regional requirements. This approach strengthens our market leadership in Asia while also enhancing the position of our flagship trade fairs in Düsseldorf for this field: MEDICA, COMPAMED, and REHACARE.
Messe Düsseldorf operates in many industries. Why is the healthcare sector the focus of your growth strategy in Asia?
Marius Berlemann: Nearly half of the world's population lives in Asia, and the region is experiencing both economic growth and rising purchasing power. Many leading medical technology companies are based here, and technological advancement is accelerating rapidly. These developments drive a growing demand for modern healthcare services and innovative medical technology. Our Asian healthcare trade fairs provide the ideal access to these markets, which we are further expanding through MEDICARE ASIA.
What changes come with the introduction of MEDICARE ASIA?
Marius Berlemann: A key progress in our initiative is the partnership with GITEX, the world's largest technology and start-up exhibition in Dubai. Starting in 2025, we will co-host the "GITEX Digi-Health 5.0 Asia" conference alongside MEDICAL FAIR ASIA in Singapore and MEDICAL FAIR THAILAND in Bangkok. This collaboration will create valuable synergies: GITEX attendees will have the opportunity to explore medical innovations, while the healthcare sector will benefit from the latest technological advancements – a true win-win for all involved.