The theme for the event is 'Bridging the Global MICE Business', reflecting China’s important role as a catalyst and emerging platform for international MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions).

Supporting the event this year are several key trade associations, such as the China Condiment Industry Association, Human Resources Association for Foreign and Chinese Enterprises, Beijing, the National Architecture Institute of China and the Macao Convention & Exhibition Association.

Also attending for the first time is D&S Media Group - Beijing D&S Consulting Co., Ltd, one of the top 10 Chinese PR agencies with branches in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chengdu. Its professional service team has nearly 300 people in public relations, advertising, events, online marketing and sports marketing and the local and international National Tourism Organisations (NTOs).

Darren Ng, managing director of mart organiser TTG Asia Media said: “It is gratifying to see more active participation from both international and Chinese exhibitors. The total number of sellers has increased this year to 250 companies and organisations, up 19 per cent from last year. It is evident that IT&CM China has become the platform of choice for generating new business leads and providing educational and networking opportunities in China.”

IT&CM China 2010 will offer networking and learning opportunities for an expected 2,000 participants. Apart from business meetings, social functions and special events, the program will include a pre-show city tour of host city Shanghai, an opening ceremony and welcome dinner and hosted networking luncheons throughout the three-day event.

A first  for the show this year is Hangzhou's role as 'Presenting City'. Hangzhou will host international buyers and media as they tour the city after the trade show. The post-show tour will showcase the historic beauty of Hangzhou and its development as a modern cosmopolitan city. Besides the post-show tours, Hangzhou Tourism Commission has committed to a larger participation of over 90 sqm of exhibiting space on the show floor and will co-sponsor the opening ceremony and welcome dinner for participants.

IT&CM China is supported by STTA (Shanghai Tourism Trade Association), SCEIA (Shanghai Convention & Exhibition Industries Association), IAPCO (International Association of Professional Congress Organisers), PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association), ICCA (International Congress & Convention Association), SITE (Society of Incentive Travel Executives) China and SITE Hong Kong Chapter.

By 2020, China is expected to be the world’s number one tourism destination and the fourth-largest outbound tourist market. China’s annual tourism growth is expected to surpass 10 per cent over the next 10 years, with business and government tourism consumption growing by 11 per cent.

Check out www.itcmchina.com <http://www.itcmchina.com/>  for more information.