The German company Messe Frankfurt has announced the cancellation of its exhibition in Riyadh, which had been scheduled to take place on 4 May and was focused on the automotive aftermarket sector.

Around 450 companies from 30 countries had been expected to attend, aiming to connect manufacturers, distributors, service providers and buyers, and to support the development of the automotive industry.

Saudi Arabia had secured the rights to use the Messe Frankfurt brand, reportedly paying substantial sums in the process, as part of efforts to enhance the Kingdom’s international image and attract investment.