JCtrans: Hello, Mr. Field. It's excited to know TOC CSC Middle East will start in October. Would you please talk about the key features of this event?
Mr. Field: Set over 3 days, TOC CSC: Middle East Conference will deliver a packed agenda full with the crucial content and industry insight you need to know to keep up to date in the world of ports, shipping and maritime logistics. By attending the conference you will gain insight into the key trends and shifts that are taking place within the GCC and its trade relationship with the rest of the world. The emergence of India and China has presented the GCC with substantial opportunities as supply chain hubs, driving the region's ports to ramp-up capacity, not only to cater to their own increasing needs, but also to develop a hub strategy. However, this overall picture of sustained growth masks wildly differing standards in supply chain infrastructure and practice in the GCC and the wider Middle East region. Many ports are undoubtedly world-scale and world-class, yet others now urgently need to migrate from political patronage to commercial viability.
TOC CSC has built its reputation on its editorial integrity and compared to many other events in this arena - you are guaranteed a quality audience and conference programme.
Our pricing structure of between $595-$795 is amongst the most fairly priced in the industry, but I doubt that you will find a more informative and thoroughly researched programme over 3 days!
Also on the show floor you can attend free to air seminars - these are not vendor led sales pitches; this is a conference on the show floor, which is free to attend. I would be surprised if you could match our new Multimodal Seminars which have presentations from Dubai Exports, National Association of Freight and Logistics, DSSA and many others. Places will be limited so please book for these sessions early.
To back this up we offer a world class exhibition with suppliers to the industry showcasing the latest technologies and numerous networking opportunities across the event.
JCtrans: What influence will this event bring to the Middle East?
Mr. Field: I hope that by bringing an international brand such as TOC CSC to the Middle East this will underline what an important and key region this is internationally. TOC was established in 1976 and in fact, under our TOC CSC ASIA brand we were one of the first conference companies to come to Dubai in 1999/2000 & 2001, so we have seen firsthand the amazing transformation of not only Jebel Ali Port but Dubai, as it matures into a global powerhouse and key maritime centre.
JCtrans: Is there any differences between this event and other editions held in 2012?
Mr. Field: Yes, there are, for 2012 we have held editions in Hong Kong, Antwerp and will finish the season in Panama, the format of the event will be the same in terms of high quality conference, content, world class exhibition, but of course there will be differences. Although trade developments, port capacity issues and supply chain complexities affect all regions globally.
JCtrans: What are the highlights in TOC CSC Middle East?
Mr. Field: I hope that I have covered most of the highlights in my first answer, a personal highlight for me is seeing the event come together and meeting friends and making new contacts in the industry. Events like these are crucial for getting communities together to do business and share common goals.
JCtrans: Is there any other thing you want to tell us about TOC CSC Middle East?