TRADE relations between Guyana and Cuba are on a new high as local businesses are being asked to sign up for the Havana International Fair (FIHAV) set for October 29 to November 2nd at the ExpoCuba fairground, Havana.

According to President of the Region Three Chamber of Commerce, Halim Khan, the event is the largest annual multi-sector trade fair in Cuba.

The 35th edition of FIHAV took place on October 30-November 3rd, 2017, in an area of over 20, 000 square metres distributed in 25 separate pavilions in the ExpoCuba fairground.

Khan said Cuban buyers rarely issue call for bids, terms of reference or purchase orders. They select a small group of companies, often on an informal basis, whom they approach individually. Cuban buyers use FIHAV as part of their pre-selection process.
He said established companies in Cuba know the importance of maintaining visibility and regular contact with their network of customers.

“Participating at FIHAV re-affirms loyalty and continued interest in the Cuban market, thereby strengthening existing contacts and establishing new ones,” the chamber president said.

He continued: “Cuba is a country with immense market potential, but competition is rising quickly. The absence of American competition from many sectors is not expected to last much longer and other countries from South America, Europe, and Asia are aggressively pursuing unique market opportunities. Participation to [sic] FIHAV allows organisations to get their foot in the door and start developing key relationships with Cuban buyers.”
Adding that for five days exhibitors, businessmen and specialists of all sectors of the Cuban economy will converge at the fair’s headquarters, Khan said this creates a favourable climate for the development of business meetings,and rounds of business seminars and conferences, among other activities.