By Ramatoulie Jawo
The Gambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Tuesday, 10th January 2023, launched the 16th edition of the Trade Fair Gambia international (TFGI) 2023.
The event was held at the GCCI Office known as Kerr Jula in Bijilo with the theme: “Connecting Business for a more Resilient Economy.”
This year’s Trade Fair is expected to start from the 18th of February to the 19th of March 2023 at the National Trade Fair ground in Brusubi.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of this year’s Trade Fair, Saul Frazer, said the previous Trade Fair registered over a hundred thousand visitors within three weeks and that they are expecting a surge in visits in the upcoming edition.
“We are expecting to record over 450 participants including participants from the ECOWAS region, Europe and Asia. GCCI also emphasizes the need to support businesses especially Small and Medium Enterprises in accessing the export market. Figures from the Private Sector Development Strategy show that Small and Medium Enterprises constitute over 90% of the Gambian Businesses Community,” he stated.
Mr. Frazzer said that SMEs contribute to the creation of jobs and the reduction of unemployment.
He stated that In the previous Trade Fairs, a youth pavilion was created with support from the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP), to promote young entrepreneurs’ participation.
“GCCI remains and we will continue to support young entrepreneurs in exhibiting their full potential. Thereby contributing their quarter to National and Economic Development of the Nation,” he assured.
Mr. Frazer said with the above-mentioned theme, the GCCI is committed to ensuring ease of access to the market and creating networking opportunities and visibility for SMEs and entrepreneurs in the continent.
The Chairman further informed the general public that the stalls will be allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Participants raised concerns about toilets, water, electricity as well as security for this year’s trade fair as it will be held at the GCCI new trade fair ground in Brusubi.
The Trade Fair presents an opportunity for business and industry innovators to showcase their products and services and to collaborate.
The Trade Fair also allows entrepreneurs and businesses to explore investment opportunities among others.