Swiss seek to attract new business at Hanover Fair

The fair is seen as a barometer of the health of the electronic and machine industries swissinfo.ch

Switzerland is playing a prominent role at the world's largest industrial trade exhibition, the Hanover Fair, which opened its doors to the public on Monday.

More than 190 Swiss exhibitors are taking part in the annual event, which showcases the latest technological developments and innovations.

In addition, the country is being represented by a delegation from the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (Seco). Executive board member, Barbara Rigassi, is leading the contingent, which was on Monday due give a presentation entitled “Location: Switzerland – the opportunities and the risks”.

“Location: Switzerland” is an official information and counselling agency for companies and people wishing to set up businesses in Switzerland. It is run by Seco in cooperation with the Swiss cantons and embassies abroad.

The fair, which is now in its 51st year, is seen as a barometer of the health of the electronic and machine industries. But it is also widely viewed as a good indicator of the current state of the German economy.

Judging by comments made by the German chancellor, Gerhard Schröder, at the opening of the fair on Monday, the economy is giving cause for concern. Schröder admitted that growth in Europe’s third largest economy was this year likely to fall short of forecasts.

The Hanover fair this year expects to attract 250,000 visitors.

swissinfo with agencies