Shanghai Expo will 'not be extended'

SHANGHAI - Organizers of Expo 2010 Shanghai on Thursday dismissed rumors that the extravagant fair would be extended this year owing to the mounting public interest, saying the six-month event will conclude as scheduled.

The Expo, a landmark occasion for Shanghai to establish a powerful global profile, is fast gaining popularity and rumors are rife that the fair, which kicked off on May 1, will be extended to the end of December.

Reportedly, organizers handed out questionnaires to the sponsors and participants to collect their feedback on a proposal to extend the event this year.