COUNTRY

Today Azerbaijan is one of the most attractive destinations for investments because of the best business location of the region, due to

• Favorable geographical location
• Well-developed infrastructure
• Business-friendly climate
• Abundant resources
• Low-cost and skilled labor force
• Good climate and welcoming culture
• Competitive cost of production
• Economical/financial stability

Within last 15 years 95 bln. USD were invested in the economy, of which more than a half by foreign investors.

The World Bank Doing Business Report 2009 named Azerbaijan the world's leading reformer of business regulations and recorded the biggest jump ever in the world ranking of ease of doing business (from 97th position to 33rd).

Over the past seven years, GDP has trebled. In 2010 GDP (51,7 bln USD) increased by 5% compared to the previous year.

INDUSTRY

The positive impact on the development of tourism in Azerbaijan was made by the years of political stability and economic development together with the traditional Azerbaijani hospitality, as well as presence of abundant resources and favorable location on the crossroads of Eurasia with the best infrastructure in the region. During 5 years the number of hotels doubled.

A number of world known international hotel chains as Sheraton, Four Seasons, Hilton, Marriott, Fairmont, Kempinski, Jumeirah opening in Azerbaijan during the year 2011.

There are a lot of projects planned to be realized in next several years, including construction of tourism resorts, hotel and business centers, health and recreation centers. Total cost of projects is 528 mln. USD.

During Eurovision 2012 60 000 tourists are expected to come to the country.

There is 32% of growth of total number of visitors to the country in last 5 years.

The year 2011 was designated as the 'Year of Tourism'. The opening of 6 new five-star hotels is going to be an unprecedented event in the year 2011.

FACTS ABOUT HOREX 2011:

• 4514 professional visitors
• 85% of participants said that they established new business contacts during HOREX 2011.
• 79% of exhibitors told they will participate next year.

REASON TO JOIN HOREX 2012:

• To be aware of new fast-developing markets. As tourism industry in Azerbaijan, including hotels, resorts, restaurants is on the verge of a boom following the rapid growth of population’s purchase power.
• To present the latest innovative products to the professional visitors with high demands
• To find your special niche in hospitality market of Azerbaijan while it’s the exact moment to be here.
• Strong promotion campaign of the show includes advertising in specialised publications and web sites, direct call-up of all specialists in Azerbaijan, sending of VIP invitations among specialised associations, direct mail campaign among specialist of Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran, Turkey and Georgia etc.
• Around 8000 visitors are expected.