This exhibition, created through the integration of trade exhibitions previously held by the Communications Industry Association of Japan (CIAJ), Japan Electronic Industry Development Association (JEIDA) and Japan Personal Computer Software Association (JPSA), was first held in 1997. COM JAPAN was organized as a comprehensive exhibition of information and telecommunications, as well as to provide a look at trends and future directions of the industry in the age of information technology (IT). In 2000, this exhibition was further integrated with the Japan Electronics Show and reborn as CEATEC JAPAN, a comprehensive exhibition designed to proceed boldly into a new century.