Trade and public attendance were down slightly for Aquarama 2009, a biennial exhibition of ornamental fish and accessories held May 28-31 in Singapore—but organizers said that the 18,550 visitors who passed through the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre surpassed expectations.

The event brought in 4,300 trade visitors versus nearly 5,000 in 2007, according to show organizers UBM Asia Trade Fairs Pte. Ltd. (Singapore). It also attracted 14,520 public visitors versus 18,000 at the event’s 10th anniversary in 2007.

At 9,000 square meters (about 97,000 square feet), exhibition space also was down slightly from 2007.

Despite the dip, organizers were pleased with the turnout. “Aquarama 2009 proved, beyond any shadow of doubt, a tremendous success in the face of global adversity,” organizers said in a press release.

About 65 percent of attendees came from outside of Singapore. Overseas visitors represented 80 countries, compared to 68 in 2007.

The show’s 158 exhibitors represented 22 countries, compared to 200 exhibitors from 27 counties in 2007.

“All along, we have been receiving tremendous encouragement from our international and national supporters. However, until the show got under way, we didn’t really know whether this support would translate into attendances and sales for our exhibitors,” said Linda Tan, UMB’s head of events. “It is therefore hugely uplifting for us all to see that our combined efforts, under very difficult operating conditions, have resulted in such an attractive, busy and successful show for all parties.

We are now looking forward to the new challenges that Aquarama 2011 will bring with great optimism.”

Aquarama 2011, incorporating Pet Asia, will be held May 26-29, 2011, at the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Singapore. For information, visit www.aquarama.com.sg. [September 2009 PET AGE]