The organisers of Sial China say it was such a success they are considering running it as an annual event. Exhibitors from 29 countries crowded the aisles of the exhibition, held in Beijing in April. If plans for an annual roll-out get the go-ahead from visitors and exhibitors, Shanghai will be used as an alternative venue. 325 companies played host to almost 14,000 visitors ­ 1,000 of them from abroad. The exhibition covered beers wines and spirits as well as food to capitalise on China's increasing interest in alcohol, with over 170 wines competing in the Sial/Mondial du Vin Chinese wine awards. {{NEWS }}