The 8th International Trade Exhibition for Ready to Wear Textiles, Fashion Accessories and Children''s Wear, Shoes & Leather Goods; incorporating a Wedding Showcase.

Beirut - fashion hub of the region:

Lebanon is fast becoming the fashion hub of the region. Over the past few years the shopping festivals held in early spring have proven increasingly popular, while the number of foreign retail chains is increasing exponentially, with most opening branches in every shopping district across the country. The development of additional department stores is accelerating, as well as the planned 100,000 sqm downtown souks shopping mall. All this is good news for Lebanon''s fashion industry, combined with the governments'' drastic cuts in tariffs.

Meet the buyers:

Beirut Fashion is designed to set the trends for the Spring/Summer collections, at the fashion capital of the Middle East. Held at the prestigious BIEL, the show is a fashion trade fair, accessories market place, fashion show, and launching pad for new designers--all under one roof. Every year the show attracts the region''s top buyers, manufacturers and distributors keen to view the latest collections, creating an exceptional opportunity for suppliers to open new markets and expand existing ones.

Tariff cuts stimulate fashion industry:

The Lebanese government''s recent cuts on import duties include designer clothes reduced by 35%, cheaper bulk clothing by 25%. Leather bags and other fashion accessories were also reduced as well as a zero tax on some raw materials used in production.

Demand for brand name fashions:

Over 80% of the markets needs are met by imported clothing. Consumers are becoming more fashion-conscious and are often well traveled or have lived abroad so are more familiar with international labels, brands and franchises. Ready to wear collections from overseas continue to dominate.

High spending on children''s clothing:

Over 50% of the population in the Middle East is under the age of 15, creating an increasing need for baby and children''s wear. Typically, consumers in the region spend more money on these items than in other parts of the world.

Fashion Shows:

Throughout the event, a variety of fashion shows will be held providing suppliers with the opportunity to display their merchandise to professional buyers and consumers from the region.

Wedding Showcase:

The latest wedding creations and accessories are always highly popular, with a special showcase dedicated to this lucrative niche market.

Completing ''the look'':

Accessories and hair care add the final touches to the ''look'' of the season. Consumer spending in this area is as important as the clothing and visitors will be keen to see the latest models.