Held in association with World of Perishables Dubai, the International Plants Expo Middle East (IPM) is the foremost annual horticultural event in the Gulf region. Running from 5-7 December, it is a fertile platform for industry partners and representatives to engage, absorb and do business in an atmosphere charged with learning, innovation and opportunity. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Airports, the audience of IPM and World of Perishables has grown incrementally with 9,945 traders and industry experts from 47 different countries, representing a growth of 18% compared to the previous year. With nearly 40% of all imported fresh goods re-exported to the rest of the region from Dubai, the expo represents enormous value and importance for both the regional and international community. The 3-day expo is entirely focused on horticulture, fruit and vegetables, with further concentration on the latest market technologies, trends, product safety, engineering equipment, as well as logistics and services for temperature sensitive goods. Bringing together plant producers, horticultural enterprises, flower wholesalers, gardening architects, retailers, seed traders, hotels and municipalities, it is the ideal platform for the industry as a whole to meet, share and conduct business. Furthermore, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia representing US$205.2 million in flower and plant business alone, and combined with the investment potential represented by new opportunities for landscaping and horticultural projects for the Expo 2020 in the UAE, this is certainly the place to be for anyone looking to capitalise on regional opportunities. IPM and World of Perishables Dubai are a perfect complement to each other, both offering exhibitors and attendees with a truly intense and high value business and learning environment. Make attendance at this year’s event part of your growth strategy.