By Bernie Cahiles-Magkilat Despite a projected economic slowdown next year, more Filipino food and beverage firms are participating in the upcoming World of Food Asia, an international food expo in Bangkok. Banjongjitt Angsusingh, Director General of Department of International Trade Promotion of Thailand, said that at least 20 Filipino firms are participating at the THAIFEX - Anuga ASIA in May next year. She said that some 50 Filipino businessmen also attended last year’s food expo. THAIFEX - World of Food Asia, well known as Thailand Food Exhibition, has been a significant event held annually by DITP since 1991. In the year 2003, the format of the exhibition was developed to be more universal with closely cooperation with two key partner agencies, Thailand Chamber of Commerce and Koelnmesse. Within almost three decades, the event has been recognized worldwide amongst food and beverage industries as well as related business as the biggest and most* comprehensive food and beverage fair in Asia. With a total area of more than 131,000 square meters hosting more than 2,700 companies from 42 countries, these firms generated more than $360 million in sales during last year’s expo. She expects to see at least 3-5 percent increase in sales next year saying expenditures for food and beverages continue to grow despite the projected slowdown in economy stressing. The top five ranked products on sales volumes were Beverages, Fruits and Vegetables, Rice, Food Technology and Food Service Businesses. The focus of the trade fair remains unchanged – to catalyse business, trade and networking opportunities for the industry. “The refreshed brand of THAIFEX-AnugaAsia affirms the global standard of the trade fair as a springboard for F&Bbusinesses in Thailand and Asia to connect with the rest of the world. THAIFEX-Anuga Asia is without a doubt a key business-to-business gateway for the F&B industry” said Angsusingh.