New features for Natural Products Expo

This year's Natural Products Expo Europe, taking place at the RAI Amsterdam from 4-5 June, is adding to its usual format an EU compliance programme and a forum focusing on business opportunities in Russia and emerging eastern European markets.

The new changes are part of a major investment programme in the event, according to organisers New Hope Natural Media, who are aiming to promote it as Europe's leading nutrition tradeshow.

As well as the recently announced SupplyExpo, aimed at the technologies and raw material suppliers, theEU Compliance Programme has been launched in association with consultants European Advisory Services (EAS), to help exhibitors understand the regulatory environment for their food supplement and functional food products in Europe. EAS will be available at the show to advise exhibitors on compliance with new EU Directives and national regulations.

There will also be a forum on business opportunities in Russia and and central and eastern Europe. Some of the leading industry players from Russia, Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary will present briefings on regulatory and market trends and opportunities for investment and export potential.

New sports nutrition and herbal product sections have been added and a CEO roundtable will gather some of the executives of Europe's biggest food and health companies to discuss issues facing their business and the industry as a whole.

A special show area has also been reserved for some of Asia's innovative companies to exhibit their products and ingredients and a networking centre will offer buyers and suppliers free advice and contacts from government trade departments, industry associations, regulators and consulting groups.

Luc Claessens, director of business development for Capsugel, commented: "In view of the enlargement of the EU in 2004, the focus on central and Eastern Europe at Expo Europe is both essential and well-timed."​