One of Asia's largest fabric shows experienced a double-digit increase in visitors from China and other countries, according to a report released this week.

The March 18-21 Intertextile Guangzhou Hometextile China drew 25,729 buyers from 97 countries, up 21.7% from last year, officials at show organizer Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. said.

Held at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou, the event featured 218 participants showcasing upholstery fabrics, carpets and rugs, bed, bath and kitchen linens and wall and window decorations. This was a 7.9% increase from last year's show, officials said, noting that exhibitors were primarily from China, Germany, Hong Kong, China, Korea and Taiwan, China.

"Once again, this fair proves its value for overseas suppliers to gain a foothold into the Chinese home furnishings market, which continues to flourish as domestic spending increases," said Wendy Wen, senior general manager for show organizer Messe Frankfurt.

The show also announced that based on feedback from buyers and exhibitors, it plans to extend the show by one day next year, to five days.

"We believe this market will continue to grow in China and we wish to retain our place as the leading trade fair in the region for this industry," Wen said.

Next year's event is scheduled for March 18-22. More information on the show is available at http://texpertise-network.com.