Preliminary estimates indicate a record-breaking 9,000 industry professionals participated in Asian Attractions Expo (AAE) 2014, the premier international conference and exhibition for the attractions industry in the Asia-Pacific region.

The explosive growth of the industry in Asia – and specifically in China – was evident throughout the three-day expo, as a record number of industry leaders participated in the event and a record number of companies showcased the newest products and services on the largest trade show floor in the event's history.

AAE, which is produced by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), took place at the China National Convention Centre in Beijing on June 18-20.

The estimated total number of registered participants (9,000) represents an increase of more than 67 per cent compared to the 2013 Expo in Singapore. That number includes more than 6,500 buyers, an increase of 80 per cent compared to 2013.

The sold-out exhibition floor featured new products and innovative services from 325 companies representing 33 countries and regions. The exhibits covered approximately 9,100sq.m of space, which was an increase of more than 30 per cent over the 2013 Expo.

Total attendance at the Expo education programs, seminars, institutes, tours, and networking events exceeded 2,500.

"Business is booming in Asia," said IAAPA president and CEO, Paul Noland. "The expo was packed with executives and decision makers developing brand new parks and attractions in record numbers and with leaders of well-established parks looking for the next big idea to drive their business to new heights."