I just spent a few days in Hanoi, Vietnam, exhibiting at NEPCON. This was the first show of its kind in Vietnam, so I was eager to see how it all played out.
First, Vietnam: With the construction, scooters, hard work, and people shuttling everywhere like crazy, it reminds me of China 15 years ago. It is not on the scale of China, but in the style. One example, today you do not see a two people and a pet on a scooter in urban China. You do in urban Vietnam. I really feel like Vietnam has what it takes to develop into a strong electronics assembly economy.
Next, NEPCON Vietnam: Over 7,000 visitors were reported by show managwement. This first-year show was small, and combined with other shows. The Indium exhibit was intermittently busy: customers, co-suppliers, media, show management, etc. I've been to many slower shows. The exhibitors I spoke with were mildly pleased, and excited about the future. That said, it happened! They've got one under their belt. I have tremendous faith in Reed Exhibitions, and I am sure they are building on this excellent first event. I am betting on year 2 being a real good show.
And … B2B Marcom: As a first exhibitor in a country, a company gets to help define (to the market) what to expect from future trade shows. It's a cool experience. The exhibitors at this show were often world-class, professional, and hard-working. The bar has been set fairly high. Companies are going to have to "bring it" to Nepcon Vietnam 2009.