The Mexico Tourism Board reports a 13% year on year increase in advance appointments made between suppliers and buyers attending the Tianguis Turistico in Acapulco, Mexico, from 13 to 16 April. Over 21,000 25-minute business appointments were arranged by mid-March, suggesting that the 2008 travel trade marketplace will be the most successful so far.

Held in the International Acapulco Centre, this year’s exhibition will welcome more than 500 exhibitors - representatives from Mexican companies comprising hoteliers, airlines, attractions, tourism boards and travel providers – and over 1,000 buyers from more than 28 countries, 57% of them from outside Mexico.

Manuel Diaz Cebrian, Director of the Mexico Tourism Board UK, Ireland, Sweden and The Netherlands, said: “Tianguis Turistico has a proven record of delivering results for both buyers and suppliers, and provides an unrivalled showcase for the Mexican travel industry.”

Minister of Tourism Rodolfo Elizondo Torres will open the three day event with Director General of the Mexico Tourism Board Oscar Fitch, and the Governor of Guerrero, Zeferino Torreblanca Galindo.  Mundo Maya, a cross border initiative launched at World Travel Market 2007 in UK will be the major focus of Tianguis 2008.  Representatives from each of the five member countries – Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador – will be present.