THE Rupununi Rodeo Arena at Lethem, in Region Nine (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo), will be a hive of activity the last weekend of November for the hosting of the  ninth Annual Trade Exposition by Rupununi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI). The venue will also see the staging of cultural and sporting activities over the two- day period, November 27 and 28.
RCCI President, Mr. Alfred Ramsarran, who made the announcement last week,  said it will be bigger than any of the previous such events, even if only due to the  fact that there has been a huge increase in trade since Takutu Bridge opening, last year September, to link Guyana and Brazil.
He said producers of craft and other commodities in the Region will be the core exhibitors but others who have been participating over the years as well as those who have set up businesses in the new commercial zone will exhibit, too.
Ramsarran said all the manufacturers and distributors want to seize the opportunity to showcase their merchandise and RCCI has invited members of the Boa Vista Chamber of Commerce and SEBRAE (the Portuguese acronym for Brazil Micro and Small Business Support Organisation).
He said RCCI has deliberately targeted producers in Region Nine and encouraged them to participate in it fully.
“We are trying to bring as many people as possible from throughout the Region to encourage and stimulate greater production and productivity within,” Ramsarran explained.
He said there will be a pre-Expo ‘lime’ on the night of Friday, November 26 before viewing of the booths commence at 14:00 h on Saturday, November 27.
Past RCCI President, Mr. Daniel Gajie added that part of the attraction for local businessmen is that they will be able to interact with their Brazilian counterparts in pursuit of expanding cross border trade.
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Mr. Manniram Prashad, will declare the programme open at 16:00 h and the formalities will include addresses by Regional Chairman of Region Nine, Mr. Clarindo Lucas.
A grand cultural show and the annual Miss Rupununi Pageant starts at 20:00 h on Saturday, November 27.
On Sunday, there will be an action packed day of sports, comprising horse racing, a 10 kilometres athletic race, a cycle race, volleyball and football competitions.
An evening concert follows from 18:00 h and prizes will be presented at 19:00 h.