Exhibitors have already booked over 75% of the show and it is likely that the total exhibition space will be filled up much ahead of time says Vahe Mekhssian sales at Hospitality Services in Beirut. More than 120 companies are expected to be present at IHF 2003, which will be held between 16 and 18 September 2003 at Zara Expo in Amman, displaying local and imported brands as well as a variety of services supporting the hospitality and tourism industry.

For the first time in its third year, IHF 2003 will be gathering Belgium companies in an official Belgium Pavilion organized by the Belgium Embassy. Belgium companies will be present in the food hall (Hall B) to launch their products to the food and beverage sectors.

IHF 2003 is introducing new competitions at the 2nd Culinary Art Show. From 4 competitions in 2002, IHF 2003 is featuring 10 display and live cooking competitions with an enhanced kitchen area and 2 theatres facing the show kitchens. Prominent chefs will compete and demonstrate their artistic and creative talents in competitions ranging from novelty cakes, to chocolate showpieces, canapes, pastries to Arabic Mezza and fruit and vegetable carving.

In addition, visitors will be able to discover how to set dinner tables under an Autumn Dinner theme where a good number of hotels and event planners will be taking part. Seminars and workshops will take place alongside the Forum addressing various issues including environmental topics such as solid waste management.

And the very successful Test Kitchen event, with live cooking and tasting will be held again this year. Prominent chefs will compete and demonstrate their artistic and creative talents in competitions such as Live Fruit & Vegetable carving, Live Ice Carving, Chocolate Showpiece and Three-Tier Wedding Cake Decoration Competition.

New in its third year, IHF 2003 will launch the 1st Design and Decor Showcase. Renowned Jordanian interior designers and architects will take part in the display of architectural and interior designs for the hospitality industry. These include well-known Jordanian architect Ammar Khammash.

IHF has become a must attend event for all those involved in the hospitality, design and food & beverage sector in Jordan and the region. Its vibrant atmosphere, interesting product displays and informative sessions has gained the support of all relevant bodies and trade associations in Jordan. IHF 2003 is expected to attract 5000 professional trade visitors during the 3-day event.

IHF 2003 is officially supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Jordan Tourism Board, the Jordan Hotel Association and the Jordan Restaurant Association.