MUNICH (dpa-AFX) - The IAA Mobility auto and mobility trade fair is expected to be larger and more international this year than at its previous edition in 2023. According to organizers Messe München and the automotive industry association VDA, current space bookings are higher than at the same point two years ago. In addition, more than 50 percent of registered exhibitors currently come from abroad--a record figure and about five percentage points higher than last year.

Asia is making a particularly strong push at the fair. Sixty-eight percent of international exhibitors hail from the region, representing more than a third of all exhibitors. China is especially well represented. According to the organizers, 103 exhibitors from China have already registered--over a third more than at the end of 2023.

Demand also appears to be high for the Open Space--controversial exhibition areas located on public grounds in the city center. Even now, more space has been booked there than was occupied in total in 2023. Supporters see these freely accessible city-center exhibition spaces as a way to open the fair to the general public, while critics argue that public spaces are being used for advertising and corporate interests.

"Showcase for the Industry"

The industry is showing in Munich "what we are capable of," said VDA President Hildegard Müller. "I am looking forward to our industry sending a confident signal of strength and a future-oriented mindset here." The fair is "the global showcase of our industry."

Such confidence is much needed by Germany's automotive sector. The latest news from the industry has been less than positive. Profits are shrinking, and many companies are cutting jobs. The reasons include--not only the currently tense tariff situation--but also fierce price competition in the crucial Chinese market, where local manufacturers are increasingly becoming rivals.

Economic Factor for Munich

Messe München CEOs Stefan Rummel and Reinhard Pfeiffer also highlighted the economic significance for Munich. "We expect regional value creation in the triple-digit million range," they stated.

Test drives will also be part of the fair. At present, 229 vehicles are available for this purpose, about a quarter more than in 2023. In addition, a dedicated area for autonomous driving will be set up on the A94. Besides cars, there will also be zones for cycling and micromobility. For example, a four-kilometer test circuit for bicycle test rides is planned in the English Garden. The fair will take place from September 9 to 14./ruc/DP/stk