Koelnmesse will bring the EISENWARENMESSE – International Hardware Fair to Central Asia, launching the Central Asia International Hardware Expo (CAIHE) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, in November 2026.
Taking place at the Uzexpocentre from 24 to 26 November, CAIHE will be the first international trade fair for the hardware and tools sector in Central Asia organised by Koelnmesse.
With a population of almost 84 million, Central Asia—comprising countries such as Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan—is undergoing a phase of profound modernisation, with significant investment in infrastructure, construction and industrial development. As a result, demand for professional solutions in construction, skilled trades, industry and retail is increasing, according to Koelnmesse.
The DIY and hardware market in Central Asia is expected to grow at an average rate of 3.4% per year through to 2029, reaching a market volume of nearly US$19 billion. In Uzbekistan alone, more than 750 major infrastructure projects are currently underway, according to government sources, including large-scale initiatives such as the sustainable urban development project New Tashkent, designed for around 2.5 million residents and incorporating key transport corridors.
“International trade fair platforms such as CAIHE also strengthen our leading trade fairs at our home base in Cologne—particularly by generating new exhibitor potential, additional visitor flows and long-term international market access. This creates new opportunities abroad, especially for SMEs from Germany and Europe,” said Denis Steker, Senior Vice President International at Koelnmesse.
For the first edition, Koelnmesse expects more than 5,000 qualified trade visitors, including retailers, wholesalers, distributors, industrial buyers and professional tradespeople. A comprehensive supporting programme featuring matchmaking formats, delegation visits and networking events will complement the exhibition and facilitate concrete business opportunities.
“Central Asia International Hardware Expo is about building bridges, forging partnerships and opening doors to new possibilities. Together with our local partner, Inter Dialog, we see this as an opportunity to connect our global network with the region’s dynamic growth,” said Gerald Böse, President & CEO of the Koelnmesse Group.
