Demand for toys and games have significantly increased in the Gulf region as it is one of the fastest growing worldwide in terms of population.

According to a recent survey the population of the GCC is set to increase by one-third to 53 million by 2020. This population surge will see a rise in the number of young people as a percentage of the total population.

The rapid increase in the numbers of youth in the region is expected to fuel increased demand for toys and games.

This, combined with the fact that the economies of the region are on a high-growth track, makes the GCC a compellingly attractive market for toy and games manufacturers worldwide.

Along with the giant markets of China and India, the GCC region is leading the surge in demand for toys and games in Asia. This will see the continent displacing North America and Europe as the largest market post-2012.

'With this rapid surge in the youthful population in the region, the countries of the GCC form a key target market for manufacturers and suppliers of toys and games worldwide,' said Playworld Middle East organiser, Epoc Messe Frankrurt chief executive officer, Ahmed Pauwels.

'With high standards of living in this region, many are generally big spenders on toys, games and other lifestyle products. Playworld Middle East is a great platform for manufacturers and suppliers to gain access to this important market,' he added.

Playworld Middle East, which will run from March 7 to 9 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, has been designed to meet the continuously evolving demands of the regional market.

Its scope covers the world of children, including toys, games and children's lifestyle products.-TradeArabia News Service