FHC China 2008, China 's leading international food and hospitality trade event, will take place for the 12th time in Shanghai from 4-6 December 4 to 6 this year at The Shanghai new International Expo Centre, Pudong.

Invited trade buyers will have the opportunity to meet more than 800 companies from 40 countries, showing a wide range of food, wines, beverages, and hospitality food service and table top supplies over just three days. 

Brendan O'Connell Jennings, manger of the organiser, China International Exhibitions, said the World Trade Organisation predicts China will be the number one destination for tourists by 2012.

"It is not at all surprising that every restaurant chain, hotel and supermarket group in the world is beating a path to China's door, with those that arrived early having embarked on ambitious expansion plans," he said.

Yum! China, the world's biggest global catering group, plans to open 425 restaurants in 2008; Ajisen China, the Japanese noodles restaurant chain, has achieved record profits in 2007 and will launch 1,500 new outlets across China by 2009.

Jennings added "FHC China 2008 will be a global shop window, providing the perfect venue for hoteliers and restaurateurs to source high quality products for their establishments."

Alongside the three-day trade show are other events, seminars and training opportunities. Highlights of the programme include Ultimate Barista Challenge, Chinese Pizza Championship 2008, Gold Wine Card Day, Wine Seminars, Olive Oil China and the Chocolate Workshop. The 10th FHC International Culinary Arts Competition organised by Shanghai Cuisine Association will again take place, attracting some 200 chefs competing over 15 classes and judged by a panel of international judges.

Another addition to this year's FHC will be the first China Canned Food and Ingredients Expo. Organised by the China Canned Food Association, this will be a unique platform for Chinese manufacturers of canned fruit, vegetables, meats and sauces to face the domestic and international trade buyers attending the fair.