MUMBAI: China will be the country of honour for the 42nd Midem music market, which will be held from 27 - 31 January 2008, in the Palais des Festivals, Cannes. China will host the Midem Opening Night Party on January 27 in the Martinez Hotel and will showcase a selection of top Chinese talent, in partnership with the Chinese Ministry of Culture.

The country`s huge potential for the music industry will be highlighted in a number of focused conferences bringing together Chinese government officials and industry executives, says a release. A dedicated country pavilion will be erected in the exhibition area, in response to the additional number of Chinese companies expected to attend MIDEM 2008.

"We are delighted to honour China at MIDEM`s 42nd edition and to offer insight into this vast market to our clients," says Midem director Dominique Leguern. "Chinese consumers are showing particular interest in mobile-delivered music products and the potential for growth in China is huge. Midem will not only allow our international clients to deepen their understanding of the Chinese market and make new business contacts, but it will also provide a showcase for exciting Chinese talent to the 10,000 music industry executives who attend the event."

The Chinese entertainment and media market, including the music industry, is expected to grow from $90 billion in 2007 to $137 billion in 2010, says the release.