OSAKA -- The German Import Fair, the first ever of its type in Osaka, will be held at the Umeda Sky Building complex here from May 16 to 18.

Sponsored by the Osaka German Consulate and the German Chamber of Commerce in Japan, the fair will include exhibitions by automakers Mercedes Benz Japan, BMW and Volkswagen Japan, as well as by Japanese dealers for Porsche and Opel. Four corners -- one each for information, events, car displays and company stands -- are planned.

German food and beverages and live entertainment in the form of classical and jazz concerts will be offered. There will also be tourism information available.

Some 15,000 people are expected to visit the fair, according to Klaus Viepve, consul of the German Consulate General. Tickets are now available at the Shin Umeda City information center located in the Sky Building complex.