HONG KONG: In a time of global recession, layoffs and economic gloom, it's those who can fend for themselves that have the best chance of getting through the hard times. That is the motive thrust of a trade show planned for Victoria Park next month.

Alan Lee Lai-chiu, project chairman of the event, said the four-day fair in July will house about 100 booths with exhibitors mainly from small enterprises and those who plan to start up their own businesses.

"The economy is in its downturn this year and many businesses have laid off workers. We started to plan this fair half a year ago with an aim to help those who want to start up their businesses," said Michael Tang Wai-cheong, the president of the Island Junior Chamber, the event organizer.

"Large companies may find it easier to weather the financial crisis, but it is a bigger challenge for many small firms," he said.

Lee said organizers started to invite applications on May 25. Over 30 groups have applied so far.

He said applications for booths will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis but priority will be given to small and new enterprises as well as those who plan to start their own businesses.

The fair will concentrate on electronic devices, household appliances, organic products, pet accessories, educational goods, food and innovative products. Up to 10 booths will be reserved for sponsors while another 10 are expected to be run by social enterprises or non-profit groups. Booth rentals have been cut by half to HK$4,000.

Lee expected that exhibitors will provide more than 1,000 jobs at the event and his group will also hire about 100 customer service officers and up to eight project coordinators.

He said it will recruit customer service officers via the Labour Department and has already hired two fresh graduates as project coordinators.

Viola Lam Yuen-lee, 22, who has just graduated from the Baptist University, is one of the successful applicants. "It is extremely hard to find a job this year. I have sent about 100 application letters (since March) but only five to six companies invited me for an interview," she said.

The chemistry graduate said the fair offers a golden opportunity for her to work as a three-month project coordinator since she must liaise with many firms to help organize the event.

Financial Secretary John Tsang Chun-wah told lawmakers in a written reply to question yesterday that the job market is expected to face new pressure in the middle of the year when fresh graduates enter the market.

He cited data from universities and tertiary institutions saying that about 20,100 students of full-time degree programs will graduate this year.

Lee expected the fair, to run from July 16 to 19, will attract more than 100,000 visitors. Admission is free.

(HK Edition 06/04/2009 page1)