Fans on stage with cosplay models at the 2012 Taipei Game Show. (Photo/Li Kai-ming)

An annual video game exhibition in Taiwan will highlight the growing popularity of mobile gaming apps by setting up a dedicated area for visitors to experience over 100 apps developed locally, the organizers said Wednesday.

"We'd like to use this opportunity to promote the local gaming industry," said Alan Sung, a specialist at the Taipei Computer Association, which is organizing the 2013 Taipei Game Show.

Mobile gaming apps have gained traction in Taiwan with the increasing use of smartphones, the association said.

Asia is currently the world's largest mobile gaming market, with Taiwan alone having a mobile gaming population of 9 million people, it said.

According to a report by the Taiwan-based Market Intelligence and Consulting Institute, the global market for mobile gaming apps is expected to jump from US$12 billion in 2012 to US$15 billion in 2015.

Since the Taipei Game Show was launched 11 years ago, it has grown into one of the major shows of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region, reflecting Taiwan's status as a digital content hub and a gaming industry pioneer in the area.

The exhibition provides an opportunity not only for game companies to showcase their latest designs but also for video game lovers to hunt for their favorite titles.

The show will run from Jan. 31-Feb. 4 at the Taipei World Trade Center Nangang Exhibition Hall and is expected to attract 300,000 visitors.