The Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce last evening official kicked off the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair at the Albion Sports Complex, Corentyne under the theme “Promoting entrepreneurship for a diversified economy”.
This year marks twelve years since the Expo has been in existence and saw participation by corporate Guyana, several Government Ministries and small business operators. Given the current world trends where countries are being forced to adopt to economic and climatic changes to thrive, the theme which embodies the need to diversify and develop entrepreneurial skill was well suited and mirrored in the remarks of the various speakers.
The Exposition is the single largest event in the region and allows for both large and small businesses to gain from sales and promotions.
During his feature address, President David Granger appealed to the Corentyne as a whole to change so that the region can be better. “This is a vast region. You have the potential to give your residents the good life. You are gifted with a strong production base and an abundance of talent,” President Granger said.
The president also urged the residents to adopt new avenues and diversify the market in order to stimulate growth in the economy.
The president called on the relevant authorities to develop a Corentyne action plan solely based on information and information technology, adding that that is the gateway to several opportunities. He added that there is a need for information to make informed decisions.
“You can sell your products but you need information about what the market is calling for,” President Granger said.
Also speaking at the opening ceremony was the president of the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Mohamed Raffik. He expressed that over the years the Expo has evolved despite a number of challenges faced by the Chamber of Commerce, adding that there is still room for growth.
In his message he expressed that in today’s global village scenario, Guyana needs to boost diversification in its economy. This, he said, can only come about with its citizens’ willingness to be imaginative, to think outside the box, to shed fossilized mindsets and prejudices, to inculcate the entrepreneurial spirit, to reach out to one another for ideas and partnership and cooperation.
During his remarks, Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin said that Government will continue to work with persons to formulate policies to uplift the economy which will involve a diversification program to reduce imports and advance exports.
The remaining days of the Expo will see patrons getting a chance to visit booths set up by the Ministry of Agriculture. They will be given the opportunity to see the various products and services they offer while having the opportunity to clear up issues with extension officers.
The Berbice Expo and Trade Fair continues until Monday 22nd August. Patrons will have the opportunity to sample and purchase different items from exhibitors like Digicel, Ansa Mcal, Edward B. Beharry and Company and other small businesses. (Excerpts taken from GINA)
