As an importer or exporter in the ocean freight industry, there are certain trade shows in the world that should be on your annual agenda. Given Port Miami’s strategic location between North America and South America, it’s no wonder that some of the most important trade events choose to host their exhibitions there. Here’s a list of some of the trade shows going on in Miami this year. iContainers will definitely be participating in some, if not all, of these. If it so happens that you’re at one of the following events, do keep an eye out for us to learn about what we offer!

April

Coverings

What: Importing enough ceramic tiles to cover three Manhattans, the United States is the world’s top importer of ceramic tiles. That said, it’s no wonder that _Coverings,_ one of the most prominent ceramic tiles and natural stone trade shows, is held on its land. Attracting over 25,000 attendees from over 40 countries annually, the fair presents endless opportunities for distributors, retailers, fabricators and contractors alike. Whether you’re sourcing new products or simply looking to better understand the industry, this is your chance to interact with the best of the industry.

Dates: Apr 4 – 7

Where: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando

Sector: Tiles, stones, allied products, equipment

May

Home Design and Remodeling Show

What: For over four decades, Home Design and Remodeling Show has united remodeling and furnishing professionals. But it also appeals to those who are looking to DIY it, providing them with a chance to mingle with sellers directly. Every year, it organizes four such shows in South Florida – each a resounding success. Plus, the four-day event offers a wide range of products and displays by international producers. This includes products for building construction, bathroom & kitchen, household consumables, etc.

Dates: May 26 – 29

Where: The Broward County Convention Center, Fort Lauderdale

Sector: Ceramics, tiles, construction, home furnishing, air conditioning

June

eMerge Americas

What: eMerge Americas is a conference revolving around the latest technology and innovation, and the newest startups. As one of the more important Miami trade shows, it markets itself as a “platform for the advancement of technology”. In 2016, the event drew some 13,000+ attendees from over 60 countries, represented by more than 400 companies. For startups, it provides a great opportunity to showcase your cutting-edge products and services woven with the latest technology.

Dates: June 12 – 13

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami

Sector: Startups, technology, innovation

Savbor Food & Wine Exhibition 2017

What: Given the success of this event last year, Savbor Food & Wine Exhibition will enter its fourth year in 2017. It’s a convocation of Spanish food experts looking to showcase over 100 exquisite Spanish products. Producers and industry professionals looking for international business opportunities will come together in order to form trade relations in and around the United States. This is the place to be if you’re looking to export your products to the United States, South America, and the Caribbean.

Dates: June 29 – 30

Where: Double Tree by Hilton, Miami Airport & Convention Center

Sector: Food, wine

July

Swimshow

What: Swimshow, as its name suggests, is a tradeshow on swimwear – the largest in the world, after having launched over 30 years ago. The annual event in Miami serves as a meeting point for bringing buyers and suppliers together to foster business relationships. Every year, the show attracts over 3,000 buyers from at least 60 different countries worldwide. For buyers, it proves an amazing opportunity to network and get up to date with the latest industry designs.

Dates: July 22 – 25

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami

Sector: Textile, retail, distributors

August

Fimeshow

What: Fimeshow is a medical trade fair that will be in its 27th year come August. From dealers to distributors, it brings together healthcare and trade professionals from all over the industry. The exhibition provides a platform for agents, buyers and sellers to seek and market their products and/or services. It mainly showcases medical equipment for hospitals, as well as the latest technology and newest supplies. In 2016, it drew over 22,000 attendees and 1,500+ companies from North, Central and South America.

Dates: Aug 8 – 10

Where: Orange County Convention Center

Sector: Medical, healthcare, technology

September

Miami International Auto Show

What: The Miami International Auto Show began in 1971 and is considered to be one of the top five auto shows in the US. It segways into the new car season every fall as one of the first auto shows of the season. It proves to be especially popular among high-end European manufacturers, who take the opportunity to parade their new models. The event showcases over 1,000 new vehicles from over 40 auto manufacturers around the world.

Dates: Sep 9 – 17

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center

Sector: Automobiles, cars

October

ICFF Miami

What: Describing itself as “North America’s premier showcase for contemporary design”, the _International Contemporary Furniture Fair _is in its second year in Miami. The event looks to attract those interested in the latest designs and contemporary furniture. It’s expected to draw over 5,000 professionals from all walks – interior designers, retailers, manufacturers, buyers, sellers, architects, etc. Over 130 exhibitors across the globe will participate in showcasing their newest products. Exporters and importers keen to expand their business should take part in this event.

Dates: Oct 3 – 4

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center

Sector: Furniture, design, carpet and flooring, textiles

November

Air & Sea Cargo Americas 2017

What: The _Air & Sea Cargo Americas _event looks to unite top professionals from the transport and logistics industry under one roof. Come November 1st, 2017, The cargo industry’s largest influencers and movers will descend on the Miami for this event where they seek to interact, network and present their latest ideas and technology. Among them, freight forwarders, shipping lines, shippers, importers and representatives of airports and seaports will be present. According to the event, it is seeking to ‘increase two-way cargo growth and international business in the Americas’.

Dates: Nov 1 – 3

Where: Miami Airport & Convention Center

Sector: Transport, logistics, packaging