Over 400 exhibitors have confirmed their participation in the 19th edition of the Autumn Trade Fair (ATF), Oman's largest shopping fair.

The ten-day shopping extravaganza will be held from March 24 to April 2 at the Oman International Exhibition Centre.

'The number of exhibitors in ATF 2010 is expected to surpass previous records as SMEs across the region are now getting more keen in tapping the growing Omani market. ATF will have 460 stalls and we are optimistic that this set target can be achieved,' said Hassan Mohammed Hussain, senior manager – Festival of Oman International Trade and Exhibitions (OITE), the event organiser.

ATF provides a special platform for Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to showcase their products to the market’s growing demand for exotic items at favourable prices.

Like in previous years, ATF offers a mix of exotic items including a wide range of fresh and innovative products ranging from handicrafts, gift and novelty items, household wares, readymade garments, food and beverage, jewelry, perfumes, accessories, furniture, shoes and bags, textiles, furniture and many more.

ATF also provides alternative herbal products including honey, natural oil items, spices, and the finest olives from neighbouring countries.

Organised by OITE for the 19th year, ATF serves as a convergence point for SMEs which represent a large share of registered businesses and contribute between 35-45 per cent to the global GDP.-TradeArabia News Service