In spite of a testing economic climate in Brazil at present, with the devaluation of the dollar and taxes approaching 40%, organisers have heralded the 31st international leather, chemical, component and accessory, equipment and machinery for footwear and tanneries fair Fimec a huge success, exceeding expectations.

Held in Novo Hamburgo on April 17-20, the event attracted 56,011 visitors from 42 countries with a strong attendance from Argentina, Peru, Italy, Colombia and Chile.

As well as presenting the latest innovations and trends, Fimec also served as a platform for the creation of a Leatherwork and Footwear Sector Committee and for a meeting of the Parliamentary Pressure Group to protect the sector, which brought together business people, organisation representatives and politicians.