March 17, 2007

KUALA LUMPUR, March 17 (Bernama) -- The Asia Pacific region will be a major supplier of machine tools and accessory products, accounting for almost half of the global machine tool demand by 2009.

According to a recent study by The Freedonia Group, such news bodes well for the region, as the best prospects would continue to be found in Southeast Asia.

With an economic upswing in the region, manufacturers are anxious to upgrade equipment and tooling systems, the international business research company said.

On that note, Singapore Exhibition Services Pte Ltd, organiser of MetalAsia 2007 (MTA2007) said the event would be a perfect opportunity to explore the latest available technologies in the market.

MTA2007 is Asia's largest precision engineering industry event, it said in a statement here, today.

Singapore Exhibition noted that 10 Malaysian machinery and equipment (M&E) manufacturers have confirmed participation in MTA2007, with the aim of seeking new opportunities and to expand their marketing network in the region.

These companies are also keen to explore the latest innovative solutions and value-added machining and precision engineering technologies from Asia and beyond at MTA2007 which has attracted more than 950 companies from 35 countries, it said.

Themed "The Precision Engineering Industry Event", the four-day specialised trade exhibition will be held at the Singapore Expo from March 28.

Among the Malaysian exhibitors at MTA2007 are ED Fastening Sdn Bhd, Elastor Polyurethane Sdn Bhd, Kobay Technology Bhd, Panther Precision Tools Sdn Bhd and Success Electronics & Transformer Manufacturing Sdn Bhd.

The organiser also cited several leading international metalworking manufacturers which will be launching and exhibiting their latest products and high-precision capabilities.

These include Leitz metalworking technology; Boehlerit Steeltec LC225K - new, universal steel turning grade; Bruderer's new launch, BSTA 200-60 BE - Automatic Punching Press; Okamoto's 1st-in-Asia UPZ-210Li - a high speed profile grinder; Progressive Components' Collapsible Cores; Riten Industries' The Blue Typhoon - High Performance Live Center; and TechTown's IMOLDElite User-Friendly Mold Design Solution.

MTA2007 has developed a strong reputation as Asia's main procurement ground for the latest manufacturing equipment and technology, and is expected to attract over 13,000 trade visitors and professionals from the region.