Fira de Barcelona is one of the most important trade
fair organisations in Europe, in terms of both activ-
ity and experience and the size of its venues, which
provide operators, exhibitors and visitors with all
the resources that a modern, efficient organisation
can provide.
The origins of the institution go back to the year
1932, when it was officially constituted after the city
had demonstrated, throughout the second half of the
nineteenth century and the opening decades of the
twentieth, great capacity to host fairs, firstly, and spe-
cialised shows subsequently. Then came the dawn of
modern trade fair activity, which has seen Fira rise to
its present position as a leading European and World
player in the organisation of fairs and congresses.
International prestige
Barcelona’s economic and social progress is closely
linked to Barcelona Fira de Barcelona and its activity,
which increases year after year, generating con-
siderable impact on the economy of the city and
surrounding area, as well as social value. Similarly,
the international prestige that the trade fair institu-
tion has achieved is inseparable from the Barcelona
brand and our city’s ability to attract talent, business,
shows, congresses and events of a cultural, social
or sporting nature.
An economic driver for the city and the country,
Fira helps to showcase the attractions of Barcelona
to the world and to attract investment. The insti-
tution is also one of the finest platforms for local
entrepreneurs, generating international projection,
trade promotion, networking and knowledge sharing.
Moreover, amongst Fira’s main qualities is its support
for production sectors, professionals and business.
Commitment and responsibility
That is why, ever since the institution was first
established, business organisations in general and
companies in particular have all contributed to the
development of Fira de Barcelona. We, too, have
become committed and responsible for its growth
and consolidation.
And that is how things will remain, because I am
convinced that, in 2017 and the following years, Fira
de Barcelona will continue to provide a service for
companies and will pursue its commitment to innova-
tion and attracting major international events, vital
conditions for internationalisation and tourism, the
basic pillars of our economic growth.
6
Presentations
A modern, efficient organisation
Miquel Valls i Maseda
President of the Official Chamber
of Commerce, Industry and Navigation
of Barcelona and Second Vice President
of the General Council of Fira de Barcelona
