Belize Trade and Investment Development Service participated in the first ever village expo held on Saturday May 6, 2012, at the Princess Hotel and Casino Kings Room. They were eighty five micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) displaying the variety of products and services that they proffer the Belizean market.

At BELTRAIDE’s booth, information was given regarding the procedures to establish a business, the incentives offered to investors, along with the policies in place to guide business decisions, and the other services that we here at Beltraide have to offer. It must be highlighted that many of our locals and tourists visited our booth.  Most of them were astonished when they saw the locally produced items that were being displayed; those of which, ranged from pepper sauces, to jellow, sweets, herbal medicines, vinegar, organic fertilizers, to Caribbean premier juices, amongst other. Many of our guests also offered to purchase some of these items from us.

According to those SMEs who were in attendance, they were very grateful for the expo, since it was an opportunity for them to have showcased the many products that they have to offer. Though, many of them made mention that the sales were very slow on that day, particularly because most people came for the experience, rather than to purchase.

It is recommended that for the show next year, the venue is changed, in order to create a better expo setting, and attract a greater audience as intended.

Information was gathered from Individuals who were interested in starting up their own businesses, as well as, guidance was given to those SMEs who needed further assistance with packaging their products, designing their labels, and gaining access to different markets.

Thanks to everyone who made this event a success, and we hope to work with you again next year.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.