Tecnargilla 2004, held in Rimini, Italy, October 1-5, drew a total of 30,241 visitors, which was a 1.8% increase from Tecnargilla 2002. The event was organized by Rimini Fiera S.p.A. in cooperation with ACIMAC (Italian ceramic plant and machinery manufacturers' association). According to the show organizers, the number of both Italian visitors (19,277) and foreign visitors (10,964) was higher at this year's event (up 1.5% and 2.5%, respectively). Additionally, the number of countries represented by the foreign visitors increased from 84 in 2002 to 109 this year. The best-represented countries were Spain, Turkey, Iran, China, Germany, Brazil, Russia, Portugal, Thailand, Poland, Egypt, India, France, Argentina and Mexico. These include countries where the Italian ceramic machinery industry is reportedly enjoying a high level of export activity, and others that already have a mature and well-developed local ceramic industry.

The international scope of the show was also reflected in the exhibitors. Of the 773 exhibitors, foreign companies accounted for 292 (37.8%) and included a variety of companies involved in the supply of machinery, raw materials, goods and services to the ceramic and brick industries. Kromatech, a special section devoted to color and glazes that was introduced at Tecnargilla 2002, was slightly larger at this year's event. With more than 220 exhibitors (55% foreign), Kromatech represented approximately 28.5% of the show. Claytech, a new section devoted to brick and tile technologies, featured more than 100 exhibitors, nearly half of which were from outside of Italy.

The next edition of Tecnargilla will be held in 2006. (The exact dates have not yet been announced.) For more information, visit http://www.tecnargilla.com.