The ninth annual Berbice expo was launched on Wednesday at the Albion Estate Senior Staff Club under the theme ‘Raising our standards, enhancing our competitiveness.’
According to a press release from the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), the event will be held at the Albion Sports Complex from July 26 to 29.
GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh, who spoke on behalf of Acting Minister of Tourism Irfaan Ali, said the event will give businesses such as manufacturers, arts and craft producers and the services sector the opportunity to showcase their standard and quality of products and services while building contacts and creating networks.
Haralsingh said he was extremely impressed with the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCCC) and the work it has been doing in promoting public/private partnership, the release said.
The theme was referred to as timely, relevant and appropriate. “Your theme should be a wakeup call and rallying message for all businesses, including the restaurants, hotels and supermarkets,” the release quoted Haralsingh as saying.
The exposition, he explained, serves as an ideal marketing tool and strategy for small and medium-scale businesses. He urged entrepreneurs and businesses to take full advantage of the expo and secure their spots early to prevent the last minute rush.
“Participation is critical for the growth, development and branding of businesses since it provides the opportunity to interact with customers, to obtain feedback and seek new suppliers and distributors,” he said.
He further stated that Berbice has made major contributions to the development of the country and its economic growth, in areas such as sugar, bauxite, infrastructure and information communication technology.
The tourism sector he explained, has also contributed significantly to the region, as hundreds of citizens from all across the country and Diaspora converge annually at various sites and attractions, the release said.
President of the CCCC Leekah Rambrich said the expo has been seen remarkable improvement since its inception in 2005. The expo he explained continues to attract thousands of patrons, moving from over 15000 in 2005 to 25000 in 2012, the release said.
According to the release, Region Six Chairman David Armogan called on the CCCC to have more cross-border businesses involved in the expo, while making reference to Suriname.
