Altogether 203 firms representing nine countries - Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Sweden, Germany, Denmark, Lithuania, Poland and Russia - took part in the Agricultural Fair MAAMESS 2005 held between 21 and 23 April in the Fairs Centre of AS Tartu Näitused.

MAAMESS 2005 was declared open by Arnold Rüütel, President of the Republic of Estonia. This year AS Tartu Näitused enjoyed the honour to host the members of EURASCO (The European Federation of Agricultural Exhibitions and Show Organizers).

The Fair had at its disposal 4,825 m² hall area and 29,200 m² open-air territory. In addition to viewing the multitudinous products exhibited by a large number of organizations and entrepreneurs, the visitors were offered a chance to broaden their horizons at 26 seminars.

Despite the cold and fresh early-spring weather the fair drew altogether 26,030 visitors on three days, which is the all-time highest indicator in the history of MAAMESS. On Thursday, we had 5,930, on Friday 10,852 and on Saturday 9,248 visitors. 6,377 came by invitation. Keen interest in Maamess among foreign tourists has grown year by year, which was vividly demonstrated by the impressive number of bus excursions this year.

As a novel feature, the forestry machinery show took place on the first day of the Fair, 21 April in Tiksoja forest on a 10-hectare territory. Among other ventures a forwarder operators’ competition was held; its two winners’ trip to the Elmia World Championship will be sponsored by Timberjack.

We greatly acknowledge the outstanding work of all participants who provided the exhibits and thereby helped us to make MAAMESS an engaging event for both Estonian and foreign visitors. A big thank you to all the participants, visitors and the Press!

Next year’s MAAMESS 2006 will be held between 20 and 22 April, and the forestry machinery demonstration in Tiksoja forest on 20 April. Naturally, you are all cordially invited.

We look forward to further successful cooperation.
AS Tartu Näitused

On behalf of the MAAMESS 2005 organizing team
Aare Loodus, project leader