Abu Dhabi, Sep 8 - The organisers of the Middle East Workboats exhibition have reported a 60 percent increase in exhibitors compared with the last year, despite the global slowdown, WAM news agency reported Tuesday.

'More than 170 exhibitors from 25 countries will be taking part - a 60 percent increase over 2008. They have booked 50 percent more exhibition space than last year. We also have three country pavilions - China, Singapore and Spain,' said Christopher Hayman, chairman of Seatrade, organiser of the exhibition that runs from Oct 5-7 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

'While the economic downturn has taken its toll on the global shipping industry, the Middle East market for workboats of all kinds continues to show vigorous growth,' he added.

Workboats include tugs, ferries, supply vessels; police, fire, patrol, pilot and rescue boats as well as dredgers, barges and floating cranes.