17th IAAPI Expo records success
India is touted to be the next big destination for the amusement and entertainment industry and this was proved by the success of the Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries Expo in Mumbai.
The 17th IAAPI Amusement Expo organised by the Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) in February 2017 was proof that the sector has been gaining popularity as a subsidiary for the tourism industry in India. Inaugurated by Ashok Goel, Founder Member and Director, IAAPI, the event was held in Mumbai. Also present at the occasion were Ajay Sarin, President, IAAPI and N. D. Rana, Chairman Trade Show and Director, IAAPI.
The three-day exhibition this year was supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, under its banner of ‘Incredible India’. This year, Maharashtra was the Host State and Government of Andhra Pradesh was the Partner State. The exhibition witnessed participation from over 115 exhibitors from India and 21 overseas countries, spread across 10,000 sqm exhibition floor area showcasing latest innovative rides and equipment for amusement park, theme park, water park, adventure sport and family entertainment centres. This year saw 27 new exhibitors. Participating nation were Bulgaria, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, the Philippines, Principality of Liechtenstein, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Netherlands, Turkey, UAE, UK, USA.
Big players from the industry shared their learning, innovative ideas, schemes and experience. Many important issues related to the amusement industry were also discussed in depth. Apart from business transactions, the show also provides an exposure to international trends through its many foreign participants.
The exhibition presented a unique platform to all stakeholders, a meaningful insight to current trends, new technologies, sustainable and environment friendly products as well as global best practices in the amusement industry. Speaking on the importance of the amusement sector in terms of tourism, Sarin said, “The amusement sector is a social infrastructure giving outdoor entertainment to children and youth of tomorrow’s India who are otherwise glued to gadgets and television sets. It encourages our children and the youth to engage in outdoor games and activities which is filled with thrill, fun, and are often educative.”
Globally, the amusement and theme park industry is well-supported by respective tourism boards and countries like USA, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong and the UAE attract huge international tourists. The sector contributes to their country’s foreign exchange and also generate business to other sectors like hospitality, travel, F&B and local handicrafts. Most importantly it also creates employment opportunities.