• why participate?
• what products/services to feature?
• what are the key features and benefits?
• what results to expect?
• how to achieve results?
• what is the message you want to give about your company and products to the target audience?
  

Selection of exhibition

• which exhibition to participate
• which country/venue provides the best exhibition for your products
• study past performance of exhibition selected
• confirm to secure space
• study the exhibition manual

Know the target market - research

• political
• economy
• social
• product knowledge
• competitors
• users
• importers
• channel of distribution
• pricing

Preparation of samples / exhibits

• provide quality recognition i.e. SIRIM approved, ISO 9000
• health certificate
• labelling requirement i.e.. Ingredient list in local language
• material used/source of materials
• price list i.e.. Free On Board(FOB)/Cost Insurance Freight(CIF)/ Cost & Insurance (CNI)
• conform to standard requirements and preference of target market
  

Shipment of exhibits

• appoint freight forwarder (the most efficient & competitive)
• identify official clearing agent appointed by fair organiser
• proper packaging & labelling of samples
• correct and proper documentation
• adhere to statutory requirement in food/pharmaceutical product
• observe dateline of shipment and delivery to exhibition ground/booth
• proper address of consignee to ensure smooth clearance with local authorities
  

Promotional materials

• sufficient product brochure /CD-ROM/video (if possible in local language is an advantage)
• business cards
• product posters
• visual display/enhancers i.e.. flower, cutlery etc.
• companies stationeries
• additional equipment i.e.. TV/video/telephone
• interpreters
  

Pre-event publicity

• invite existing & potential buyers
• advertise in exhibition directory
• seek advice from MATRADE's Trade Commissioners and other government agency overseas
• Chamber of Commerce/business council/trade industries association in host country
  

Itinerary planning

• visa requirement
• passport (must be valid more than 6 months)
• vaccination and other health requirement
• confirmed flight schedule
• accommodation (book early to avoid disappointment)
• local transportation
• suitable clothing i.e.. winter coat
• sufficient currency
• observe currency requirement
  

Stand design/construction

• stand design should provide maximum visibility to prospective visitors
• prepared written brief which clearly states your show objective to stand contractor or designer
• company's identity and corporate image should be well projected
• effective lighting to highlight your display
• avoid confusing or messy display, keep message simple
• easy access to your display and access on to your stand
• resist the temptation to cover your shell scheme walls with leaflets, brochures and posters
• visible signage
• secure enough budget
  

Payments

• observe payment dateline for the following:
  • floor space
  • stand constructions
  • additional equipment
  • accommodation
  • visual merchandiser services, etc