By James Wells

LAS VEGAS, USA: Organisers of the Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show (CES) have welcomed the planned involvement by the Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association (AEEMA) at next year’s event.

CES vice president – sales and business development, Dan Cole, has confirmed he has started negotiating with AEEMA chief executive, Angus Robinson, for a 600 square feet stand within the International Pavilion at the show which will be held in early January.

"The International CES welcomes and applauds this move by the AAEMA to expand its presence in the U.S. by participating in a high-profile way at the 2007 event.  We look forward to working with them as they begin to showcase Australian companies and technologies to our 150,000 attendees from around the world,” Cole told current.com.au.

Robinson said he has asked organisers for a prominent position at the event to display innovative technology from Australian companies.

“We told the organisers that we wanted a prominent position as the only other western country was Denmark; the rest of the exhibitors were Asian,” Robinson said.

The benefits for Australian retailers will be a greater awareness of Australian products.

“There are a lot of Australian retailers that go the US – buyers mainly. This exhibition will help Australian companies building products for US markets and help Australian companies get better awareness in the global marketplace,” Robinson said.

A number of Australian companies are expected to apply to join the Australian display at the 2007 CES including specialist Bluetooth and Hi Fi manufacturers.