More than 40,000 visitors are expected at Domotex asia Chinafloor, March 22-24, 2011, along with the international Wood Flooring Forum, set for the day before with the theme “Forces of Change.”

“The disruption in the supply chain due to the ITC investigation of engineered wood flooring coming out of China right now makes this show more important than ever for those who want to source new product and suppliers from the greater Asia area,” said Jim Gould, president of the Floor Covering Institute and Strategic Director of the Wood Flooring Forum. “The Asia’s Domotex show is an important gathering place for buyers looking for new products and for manufacturers looking for distribution.”

The massive show will encompass more than nine exhibition halls within the Shanghai New International Expo Center, and according to Jerome Lizambard, international sales and marketing director for VNU Exhibitions, the wood and laminate flooring section will cover roughly 22,000 square meters and include up to 250 exhibitors. In total more than 1,000 exhibits are expected at Domotex Asia this year.

One day before Domotex Asia opens the international Wood Flooring Forum (WFF) will present an overview of opportunities and obstacles in the wood flooring industry, addressing legal and environmental issues, market trends and the ITC investigation. The United Nations’ International Year of Forests 2011 will be introduced to the flooring industry. The forum is geared toward industry executives and buyers around the world.

“This year’s general session is shorter and we added intimate panel discussions to give our attendees access to experts on global market issues,” said Gould. The sessions will be presented in two tracks one with an Eastern market focus and the other concentrating on Western markets.”

Panelists include representatives from buying and retail groups such as CCA Global Partners (USA) and PowerDekor and Elegant Living (China) to discuss marketing through their retail channels. The World Wildlife Fund, Global Forest Trade Network and the U.S. Dept. of International Trade will address unique laws and regulations, certifications and customs in major markets. Experts will also address the growing LEED and sustainable building markets. Additionally, market data and trends for major wood markets will be presented, including an update on the current ITC investigation.

The forum is co-organized by China’s National Forest Products Industry Association, U.S.-based Floor Covering Institute LLC, and VNU Exhibitions. It will be held March 21 at the Kerry Hotel Pudong, adjacent to the Shanghai New International Expo Center where Domotex asia Chinafloor opens the following day. For more information or to register, contactgordon.liu@vnuexhibitions.com.cnor Jim Gould atjgould@floorcoveringinstitute.com.