The exposition, aimed at boosting local economic development and cultural advancement, is to consist of dozens of programs, including a national housing exhibition, a fashion show, a flower fair, and an international furniture exhibition.

The West Lake expo was first initiated in 1929, which attracted exhibits and visitors from all over the world.

Last year the city resumed the expo and in 22 days received more than four million visitors.

Official statistics showed that the business volume of West Lake Expo 2000 reached six billion yuan (US$ 723 million) and that the city drew more than US$ 2.4 billion dollars worth of domestic and overseas investment.

(21DNN.com 02/06/2001)