(TheDrinksBusiness) - Over 50,000 thirsty visitors and 2,400 exhibitors from 45 countries are expected to descend upon Bordeaux this month to attend one of the world’s most important wine and spirits trade fairs; Vinexpo 2013.

Taking place for the 17th year from 16-20 June at the Parc des Expositions in Bordeaux, this year’s fair, a vibrant business hub for winery owners, merchants, importers and writers, is expected to attract more international visitors than ever before.

There will be 28 national pavilions this year, with Bulgaria, Mexico, Romania, Tunisia and Uruguay all keen to pin their flag on the world wine map, while more established wine countries like Spain, Argentina, Chile, Germany, Portugal and Italy will all boast national pavilions.

France meanwhile, will be well represented with dedicated pavilions for key regions like Bordeaux, Alsace, the Languedoc, the Loire, Burgundy and Provence.

“With newcomers such as China and Mexico exhibiting, and growing visitor interest from buyers from countries like Nigeria and India, Vinexpo is a more international marketplace than ever before”, says the fair’s chief executive, Robert Beynat.

While France dominates the exhibitors list through the likes of Champagne Lanson, Bernard Magrez Vignobles, Gerard Bértrand and Castel Frères, this year’s fair has a decidedly international twist, with 40% of those taking a stand hailing from outside of France.