Marintec China, which took place in Shanghai from December 4 to 7 2001, has proven that the show is the definitive maritime event not only in China, but also in the Asia Pacific region for the maritime industry. Figures say it all: 13,000 sq. miles of gross exhibition area, 778 participating companies from 31 countries and regions, 14 national pavilions and 22,865 unique visitors out of which 1,608 are international visitors coming from outside China. Marintec China 2001 was the largest and the most successful show ever held in its history since inception in 1981. For the first time at Marintec China 2001, all visitors were requested to register prior to admission. This was to ensure that only qualified trade visitors were allowed in and the unique number of visitors could be recorded.