PIMEX continues to grow

by Media Services on 10 Dec 2005 'We’re going to be run off our feet for the next six to eight weeks responding to the first two days’ enquiries,' said Tom Burland of Asia Superyachts, commenting that the quality and variety of visitors was excellent. Burland was referring to enquiries for two of the company’s main products – the Super Nova 36 catamaran and private jet leasing.

The Supernova is a revolutionary catamaran that can be configured as a ferry transport, private motor yacht or a variety of other commercial applications.

First day visitors tallied just under 1,000 – almost 400 bona fide trade visitors – with almost 400 exhibitors’ representatives networking the show too and 50 representatives from national and international media. International visitors included Korea, China, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, UK, Italy, France, USA and more.

PIMEX 2005 was officially opened by Phuket’s Governor, Udomsak Uswarangkura, who has been a firm supporter of Phuket’s marine industry during his three years in office.

'The Thai government has earmarked marine tourism and all that goes with it as a key growth area, and Phuket is a key player in that growth,' he said in his opening speech, adding. “The organisers of PIMEX tell me that this year there are many more boats in the show than before – a sure sign that the scrapping of import taxes is working.

'Around Phuket’s coastline, several other new marinas are in various stages of planning. In my office, we hope to facilitate these developments so that Phuket’s marine leisure industry can grow to reach its full potential.' Governor Uswarangkura went on to explain that the same morning he had signed final consents for the development one east coast marina development.

The show’s second day kicked off a series of seminars. ‘Tropical Living’ was the topic for Friday, focusing on the show’s lifestyle aspects. A seminar discussion on Marina Development in Thailand, to be held at the newly opened Royal Phuket Marina, is the topic for Saturday, followed by a discussion on regatta growth in Asia scheduled for Sunday.

PIMEX 2005 counted 139 domestic and international exhibitors from 12 countries at close of registration, with 36 boats on display.

The show runs until Sunday 11 December. Opening times are 10am to 6pm. Entry is free of charge to all visitors.

For more information visit www.phuketboatshow.com