49^th International Fair of Furniture, Equipment and Interior Decoration together with the International Exhibition of Woodworking Machines and Tools were opened today and will last until Sunday, 20^th November.

"Belgrade Furniture Fair has managed to maintain its position despite hard and complicated economic conditions, which was not an easy task considering the fact there are no similar events in the region", said Dusan Petrovic, Minister of Agriculture, Trade, Forestry and Water Management in the Republic of Serbia."Woodworking industry is showing great vitality despite unfavourable business conditions. An export worth 152 million euros was accomplished in nine months this year, which is a 20% increase comparing to the same period last year. This important economic branch is employing more than 14.300 workers in 650 companies.

"Serbia has great potentials in this economic field that is yet to be used, which is why the Government is continuing to support it. One of the ways is a competition for young designers. All starts from the idea and if we manage to brand our designers, furniture industry will hopefully have the strength to realise their ideas", Dusan Petrovic explained.

The Fair gathers some 500 exhibitors displaying complete range of furniture, while the visitors are offered up to 40% discounts, affordable payment methods, catalogue as well as on-line purchase.

Furniture Fair is held in the Halls 1, 1a, 2, 3, 4 and 5a, from 10a.m. to 20p.m.except the last day, when the Fair closes its gates two hours earlier.

Single tickets are 300 din, group visits are 200 din, and car park is 100 din per hour.