Steelfab ... to feature the Essen Welding & Cutting Pavilion in 2018.

SteelFab 2018, a B2B trade fair that focuses on the steel fabrication and metal working industry, will kick start the New Year for Expo Centre Sharjah.

“The exhibition wing of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry is aiming to leverage on the robust first-quarter performance in 2017, and there is no better event than SteelFab 2018 to ring in the New Year of opportunities,” said a senior official of the organiser.

In addition, SteelFab will also aim to strengthen its position as the region’s largest and longest running trade fair dedicated to the metal working industry by packing a bigger punch for its upcoming edition, which will be held from January 15 to 18.

“SteelFab is one of our flagship events and usually sets the tone for the entire year for Expo Centre Sharjah. It is held in the third week of January and has always been a great performer in terms of both exhibitor participation and visitor turnout,” said Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah.

In 2017 too, thanks to SteelFab 2017, Expo Centre Sharjah had a positive start, registering a seven per cent year-on-year increase in the number of visitors to various exhibitions and events organised by the centre during the first quarter of 2017, and attracting more than 302,474 visitors, he added.

“We have had a great year so far. We are expecting a better year in 2018. Oil prices are edging up, spending has picked up for Expo 2020 and the private sector sentiment is strong on the back several economic indicators. These factors will generate higher global interest in the region and bring in more exhibitors and visitors to our shows,” said Al Midfa.

“SteelFab will be featuring a special pavilion – Essen Welding & Cutting Pavilion – in association with Messe Essen, while for the second year running, we will be partnering with International Tube Association of Germany to boost the pipe and tube machinery segment at the show,” he added.

The event will also feature special segments such as wear-resistant, welding and cutting and machine tools, seminars and technical presentations, live displays and the third Fasteners World Middle East.