The announcement was made at a press conference during AAPEX, which is being held in conjunction with the SEMA Show.

In addition to the expo in China, AAIA will reinforce its ongoing trade policy and promotions by hosting senior-level aftermarket executives at a seven-day Executive Enrichment Program in Shanghai and Beijing in March 2007.

"A recent survey of our members found a high level of interest in learning more about doing business in China and selling products to this rapidly-growing Asian vehicle aftermarket," said Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO, AAIA. "The U.S. aftermarket technology, brands, products and delivery system are the best in the world and we want to give our member companies who want to sell in Asia the contacts, knowledge and assistance needed to enter the fast-growth Asian markets."

AAIA’s member survey shows that more than 78% of respondents are currently selling products and/or services to the Chinese market. Of those respondents who are not currently selling in China, 58% indicated that they are planning to, according to AAIA.

For more information on AAIA’s Asian Initiative, contact Rich White at 301-654-6664 or e-mail [email protected].