SPECIAL EVENT ((LONDON) - AUTOSPORT INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCES

China is widely acknowledged as possibly the most valuable growth economy in the world and now Autosport International is forging links with the burgeoning market, welcoming its first Chinese exhibitor in 2008.

Established in 2002, Jiahe Garment Co Ltd, from Fujian, China, will bring its range of racing wear to Europe's largest and most important motorsport trade show, introducing its products to the European motorsport market.

"We have great products and can't wait to bring them to the European market, especially to the heartland of motorsport, the UK," commented Wang Jian Xin, General Manager of Jiahe Garment Co.

"The Autosport International Show is our first step into Europe, enabling us to meet future customers in person. We also hope to research the needs and trends of the marketplace, ensuring that our products develop to meet these."

Peter Digby, Chairman of the Motorsport Industry Association (MIA), says this further reinforces the UK's central role in the world of motorsport. "We've worked hard to generate a motorsport industry in this country," said Digby, who estimates that the UK motorsport business is worth £3.5 billion to the economy.

"Motorsport Valley is well recognised around the world; there are other places, but nothing with the concentration that exists in the UK. It's a flagship for this country. An event like Autosport International gives visitors a great overview and I'm sure that's why it has attracted exhibitors from across the world."

Autosport International will run from Thursday 10 to Sunday 13 January, with the show open to the public on the Saturday and the Sunday, at the Birmingham NEC. Pre-registered ticket prices for members of the trade are £24 per person per day or £31 including the Live Action Arena. The price includes the 2008 Trade Guide. To register as a member of the trade and book tickets, please visit the trade section of http://www.autosport-international.com and click on "Trade Registration".