This new Expo will allow our members to tap into the lucrative Pacific Rim, South East Asian and Chinese markets and expand the scope of their businesses. That part of the world is long known for mirroring trends developed in the United States.
Japan serves as a portal to the larger Pacific Rim market, which includes China and Southeast Asia.
Here in Japan, consumers are well known for their propensity to spend money personalizing their vehicles, and for their passion for motor sports. Wood announced SEMA's participation at a Tokyo press conference earlier today. It is our intention to work closely with all of the Japanese industry associations, including the representatives of the Japanese government and semi- government bodies. They are the key aftermarket players in the region. It is beneficial to all sectors of the industry that SEMA and its members become more aggressive in their approach to this major market.