HONG Kong companies have returned from the Frankfurt International Spring Fair, this year's first major trade fair in Europe, with orders worth $560 million. Eighty-four local firms participated in the fair, between February 19 and 22, under the auspices of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. Of the total business reported, more than $220 million were confirmed orders while business under negotiation amounted to $347 million. This follows a strong showing at four other major European fairs earlier with business totalling more than $1 billion.