– larger location on the cards
WORD IS that the just-concluded trade fair and exposition, GuyExpo, was a huge success, particularly for the craft producers, with many reporting having made contact with overseas buyers, indicating that they had secured export markets for their products, considered by many to be the best in terms of quality in the Caribbean.

This is according to Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Manniram Prashad, who said that the craft, agriculture, furniture and food sectors stood out at this year’s trade show, held from October 1 to 6 at the Sophia Exhibition Centre.

Noting that many Guyanese attending the fair were surprised that the items on display were locally-made, Minister Prashad said one of the factors that contributed to the high quality and fluidity of presentations in the craft section this year was the formation of the Craft Producers’ Association. This organization was responsible for the selection of craft exhibitors and the high level of displays was a testimony to the effectiveness of this group.

Additionally, the Agro-Producers Association screened their membership and was able to front several booths with high quality displays.

Furniture manufacturers also did well and visitors were of the view that the products displayed, especially kitchen sets, were of exceptional quality. Some were convinced that they were imported.

Most importantly, the Minister recognized the impact of the food section, enhanced with international options and a seated area. This was a huge success, with families patronizing local favorites Windjammer, K&VC and the Ridleys. Culinary options were enhanced by the presence of Malaysian, Chinese, Middle Eastern and Brazilian dishes.

Recreation and comfort were key, with the layout of this year’s exhibition featuring large spaces dedicated to accommodating visitors in a relaxing atmosphere with ease of passage, eliminating instances of congestion. This allowed for a good ambience improved by entertainment, for children and adults.

The fact that thousands thronged the venue nightly, indicated serious interest in Guyanese producers and the marketing of their products. Minister Prashad stated that feedback has been confidence-boosting.

Because of the success of the Expo, the endeavours to promote local products and encouraging response of Guyanese, the Minister posited that attempts will be made to seek out another, larger, location to host the exhibition in the future. This would be to facilitate better showcasing of products and greater comfort for exhibitors, viewers and the buying public.

The Minister indicated that Expo 2009 achieved the objective in promoting local products. The presence of buyers was the result of an investor seminar where foreign investors were addressed by the Minister.

For quality assurance purposes, The Ministry, National Bureau of Standards and the Guyana Arts & Craft Association will be monitoring producers to ensure that whatever comes out of Guyana is of high quality. (GINA)