He got his start trading computers, but saw that trade fairs had more business potential.

FORBES: Aras Agalarov

At the same time, trade fairs expanded, shipping lanes became more active, and overland trade paths, many dormant since the time of the Romans, were reestablished.

FORBES: Fifth Anniversary

Mr Hirst reminds the reader that back in the 1930s, the Lebanese government printed tourist brochures in Hebrew, and sponsored Lebanese pavilions at Tel Aviv trade fairs.

ECONOMIST: Two writers unpick Lebanon��s complexities

It takes up the entire cubic footage capacity of this art museum that started off as an exposition hall for world trade fairs early in the 20th century.

FORBES: Grandiosity Is A No-No

Local markets and trade fairs are awash in aspiring brands.

ECONOMIST: Chinese business

Many importers source their products at trade fairs.

ECONOMIST: Making money from believers

While both foreign and domestic sports brands make the bulk of their sales from selling to franchises and wholesalers in trade fairs months before they are sold, Western sports brands have better ties with the shops that sell their products.

WSJ: China Brands Lose to Western Labels